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COL.  GEORGE  WASHINGTON  FLOWERS 
MEMORIAL  COLLECTION 


DUKE  UNIVERSITY  LIBRARY 
DURHAM.  N.  C. 


PRESENTED  BY 
W.  W.  FLOWERS 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Arciiive 
in  2013 


http://arcliive.org/details/historyofsandygrOOpatt 


Sandy  Ghovk  Chi  kch 


f  2 


HISTORY 


OF 


^anbp  #robe  ^res^tipterian  Cfjurcfj 


COMPILED  BY 

M.  A.  PATTERSON 

AND 

A.  D.  CARSWELL 


PUBLISHED  BY 

THE  MEMBERS  OF  SANDY  GROVE  CHURCH 

HOKE  COUNTY,  NORTH  CAROLINA 


ISIINITTEB   OF   SESSION". 


mf'} 


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//cJ^        c^^^T^c  ^/^ ^^^  .,<(^^jj,^^  ^ ^ 

yp  ^  /^  CcC<:^(7^r^,(:tt/  /^  <t-<^,f^>T  .«^fV  z>->^^ 
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[4] 


/ffj^^  ]MIiS'IJTES    OK    SKSSlOaS". 


[5] 


P59766 


otrztyuxoL   Y^ 


[6] 


DEDICATIOX 

TO 

the  memory  of 
The  Rev.  David  Fairley,  D.  D. 

Man  of  God,  venerable  and  saintly  Minister 
of  tlie  Gospel,  avIio  gave  thirty-seven  years 
of  tireless  service  to  tlie  Sandy  Grove 
Cliureli,  and  who  entered  into  his  eternal 
rest  October  23d,  1912,  this  book  is  affec- 
tionately dedicated  by 

The  Members  of  Sandy  Grove  Church 


[7] 


P59766 


PREFACE 

This  book  is  a  brief  history  of  Okl  Sandy  Grove  Church.  We 
have  earnestly  endeavored  to  bring  before  the  eyes  of  the  public 
the  most  outstanding  events  in  the  history  of  this  church.  But 
to  keep  the  book  from  being  too  voluminous  some  very  important 
and  interesting  details  have  necessarily  been  omitted.  We  regret 
very  much  indeed  that  some  valuable  materials  were  destroyed 
by  Sherman's  Army,  which  would  have  been  a  great  contribution 
to  this  work. 

We  are  greatly  indebted  to  members  of  the  Church,  and  friends 
who  have  contributed  so  liberally  of  their  valuable  time  in  col- 
lecting information,  and  putting  same  in  the  form  of  manuscripts, 
which  have  been  used  almost  verbatim.  . .     , 

We  wish  to  record  our  deep  appreciation  of  the  generous  assis- 
tance rendered  by  the  following :  Rev.  Eugene  Alexander,  former 
pastor  of  Sandy  Grove  Church ;  Rev.  R.  A.  McLeod,  pastor  of 
the  Galatia  Church,  for  copying  the  manuscript  of  the  late  David 
Fairley  D.D. ;  Mr.  J.  W.  McLauchlin  of  Raeford,  and  Mr.  J. 
McN.  Johnson  of  Aberdeen,  ^.  C 

A.  D.  Carswell. 

Raeford,  N.  C,  August  20,  1925 


[8] 


CONTENTS 

Page 

Preface    8 

History  of  Sandv  Grove  Presbyterian  Church    (From  Manu- 
script written  bj  the  late  Key.  Dayid  Fairley,  D.D 13 

Death  of  Key.  Dayid  Fairley_ 28 

Pastoral  Letter  September  7,  1879 29 

Sketch    of    Peter    Monroe's    Family 31 

The  Session  adopted  the  Following  Resolutions :     In  Respect 

to  the  Memory  of  Peter  Monroe 34 

History   of   Sandy  Groye   Church   from    1893-1916 38 

Roll    of    Ministers 46 

Roll  of  Ministers  sent  out 47 

l^ames  of  Trustees 47 

The  Register  of  Elders 48 

The  Register  of  Deacons 48 

My  Pastorate  at  Sandy  Groye  Church,  1916-1923 49 

Action  of  the  Congregational  meeting  of  Sandy  Groye  Presby- 
terian  Church,   April   2,   1922 55 

Resolution  concerning  the  disposition  and  use  of  funds 56 

The   Membership  of  the   (Uiurch 57 

Regrets 66 

Two  liyes  of  equal  Duration 66 

S.    J.    Cameron    and    Family 67 

The  Blue  Family 68 

Memorial  of  E.  W.  Cameron.... 73 

History  of  Sandy  Groye  Church,  From  1924-1925 74 

[9  ] 


ILLUSTRATIONS 

Page 

Sandy  Grove  Church -. 2 

Minutes  of  Session... 4 

David  Fairley  6 

J.  M.  Graham 16 

Rev.    James   McQueen 18 

W.  J.  Currie. 19 

W.    J.    Bethune 20 

Eev.  J.  B.  McKinnon 20 

Eev.  J.  P.  McPherson 22 

Eev.  ^eill  McKay 22 

E.  McCaskill 25 

J.   C.   McCaskill 25 

Daniel   McCaskill 26 

M.    McLeod...... 27 

A.  D.  McLeod 27 

Mrs.  Peter  Monroe 32 

Eev.  Colin  Monroe,  D.D 33 

Eev.  Dougald  Monroe 33 

Eev.   E.   M.  Monroe,   D.D... M 

A.  C.  Monroe 35 

J.  P.  Monroe,  M.D 35 

Evander  Monroe 37 

Mrs.   Margaret   J.   Monroe  Blue 37 

D.  J.  Patterson... 39 

John  A.  Gillis....... 39 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Angus  Ray 40 

D.   J.   Gillis 41 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  D.  K.  McDuffie... 41 

Eev.   W.    M.   Fairley,    D.D... 42 

Eev.    J.    A.    Calligan 42 

Eev.  W.  C.  Brown.... 43 

Eev.  J.  D.  A.  Brown 44 

Eev.  W.  A.  McLeod,  D.D 44 

[11] 


12  iLLrsTRATioNs — Continued 

Page 

Mr.   and  Mrs.  D.   B.   Campbell 45 

A.  V.   Kay 46 

Eev.    Eugene    Alexander 49 

S.  J.  Cameron 67 

K    McK.    Blue... 68 

Mrs.  N.  McK.  Blue 69 

John     Blue... 70 

X.  S.  Blue 71 

Mrs.  N.  S.  Blue 72 

L.  A.  Blue... 72 

E.  W.  Cameron.. 73 

Eev.  A.  D.  Carswell 74 

M.   A.   Patterson 75 


HISTORY 

OF 

^anbp  (§robe  ^n^h^ttvim  Cfjurcf) 

From   Manuscript   Written   by   the   Late 

REV.  David  Fairley,  D.D. 

The  time  of  the  first  Scotch  settlements  along  the  Cape  Fear, 
in  that  part  of  Bladen  County,  noAV  Cumberland,  is  not  known 
with  exactness.  There  were  some  at  the  time  of  the  separation 
of  the  Province  into  North  and  South  Carolina,  in  the  year  1729. 

Authentic  records  declare  that  the  Scotch  had  found  the  sandy 
plains  of  Carolina  many  years  previous  to  the  exile  and  emigration 
that  succeeded  the  crushing  of  the  hopes  of  the  House  of  Stuart, 
in  the  fatal  battle  of  Culloden  in  1746. 

During  the  Scottish  rebellion  of  1745,  Neill  McNeill,  a  native 
of  Argyleshire,  Scotland,  came  to  America  and  traversed  the  wilds 
of  New  York,  Pennsylvania,  and  North  Carolina.  In  1747  he 
visited  Wilmington,  ascended  the  Caj^e  Fear  as  high  as  lower 
Little  River,  and  made  explorations  of  the  country  along  its  banks, 
as  Avell  as  in  the  neighborhood  of  Cross  Creek,  then  called  Heart's 
Creek.  He  returned  to  Scotland  in  1748,  and  the  following  year 
landed  in  Wilmington  with  his  family  and  a  considerable  number 
of  his  countrymen,  variously  estimated  from  three  to  six  hundred. 
These  settled,  some  in  Anson,  others  in  Bladen,  but  most  of  them 
in  Cumberland.  Probably  the  report  of  those  who  had  settled 
along  the  Cape  Fear  of  the  mild  winters,  the  open  forests,  the 
abundant  canebrakes,  and  wild  grass,  turned  the  attention  of  these 
emigrants  to  this  part  of  America,  where  lands  were  abundant  and 
cheap. 

Soon  after  the  year  1749  Baliol,  of  Jura,  ran  a  vessel  betAveen 
Campbellton,  Scotland,  and  Wilmington,  and  every  year  added 
to  the  number  of  Scotch  emigrants,  until  the  Highland  Scotch 
soon  formed  the  majority  of  the  population  and  controlled  the 
civil  and  ecclesiastical  interests  of    what    is    now    Cumberland, 

[13] 


14  History  of 

Bladen.  Rolx'son,  Ricliiiioiid,  Moiitgoincry,  Moore,  and  Harnett 
counties.  These  counties  comprise  the  territories  which  uuiy  he 
designated   the   ''Scotch   Settlement"   of  ISTorth   Carolina. 

From  174!'  until  1776,  a  period  of  twenty-seven  years,  those 
hardy  sons  of  toil  had  devoted  the  energies  of  their  minds  and 
bodies  to  grazing  of  herds  and  flocks,  and  the  cultivation  of  the 
soil.  Their  descendants  are  still  found  in  this  section,  and  are 
a  moral  and  religious  people,  noted  for  their  industry  and  economy, 
perseverance  and  j)rosperity,  forming  a  most  interesting  and 
important  })art  of  the  state.  Their  present  descendants  are  to  be 
found  everywhere  in  the  South  and  West., 

The  first  religious  service  of  which  we  have  any  account  among 
these  Scotch  emigrants  is  given  by  the  Rev.  Hugh  McAden  in  his 
missionary  tour  of  Xorth  Carolina,  and  ])ublished  in  Foote's 
Sketches.  He  says:  "On  Sal)bath,  January  Sath,  1756,  I  rode 
to  Hector  McNeill's  (evidently  of  the  Bluff),  and  preached  to 
a  number  of  Highlanders — some  of  them  scarcely  knew  a  word 
that  1  said;  the  ])oorest  singers  I  ever  heard  in  all  my  life.  Wednes- 
day, rode  U])  to  Alex.  McKay's,  ui)on  the  Yadkin  road,  thirty 
miles  (where  Longstreet  Church  is  now  located),  Thursday 
preached  to  a  small  congregation,  mostly  Highlanders,  who  were 
very  much  obliged  to  me  for  coming  and  highly  pleased  with  my 
discourse,  though,  alas,  I  am  afi-aid  it  was  all  feigned  and  hypo- 
critical." 

The  reason  assigned  for  this  fear  was,  that  some  stayed  around 
the  house  all  night  and  indulged  in  drinking  in  spite  of  his  remon- 
strance. 

On  his  return  to  Pennsylvania,  Mr.  McAden  made  known  the 
sad  story  of  the  religious  destitution  of  the  Scotch  emigrants  in 
Carolina.  It  Avas  doubtless  through  his  influence  that  the  Rev. 
James  Campbell,  a  native  of  Campbellton,  Scotland,  but  then 
laboring  in  Pennsylvania,  was  induced  to  cast  in  his  lot  among 
these  people  and  to  preach  the  gospel  to  them  in  their  own  ver- 
nacular. Mr.  r^Tmpbell  commenced  his  labors  among  the  Scotch 
of  Cumberland  in  the  year  1757,  and  was  abundant  in  missionary 
labors,  necessarily  endui'ing  great  privations  and  self-denials  in 
order  to  give  th(<  bread  of  life  to  his  spiritually  perishing  fellow- 
countrymen. 


Sandy  Grove  Pkesbytekian  Chuech  15 

There  is  no  evidence  that  any  minister  of  religion  accompanied 
the  first  Scotch  emigrants.  Perhaps  they  were  as  long  as  ten 
years  destitute  of  the  preached  word.  This  fact,  that  no  minister 
came  with  these  people,  many  of  whom  were  pious,  and  all  of 
whom  were  accustomed  to  attend  on  public  worship  cannot  easily 
be  accoiinted  for.  And  it  had  an  unhappy  effect  upon  the  emigrants 
and  upon  their  children.  Without  the  public  ministrations  of 
the  ordinances  of  the  Gospel  a  sense  of  religion  will  soon  begin 
to  pass  away  from  the  public  mind ;  and  the  fire  will  be  kept 
burning  only  on  private  altars  here  and  there.  The  wonder  is, 
that  in  the  circumstances  of  these  colonists,  the  sense  of  religion 
was  so  well  maintained. 

For  thirteen  long  years,  this  worthy  evangelist,  the  Jlex.  James 
Campbell,  was  alone  preaching  among  the  outspreading  neighbor- 
hoods in  what  is  now  Cumberland  and  Robeson.  !N^ot  until  1770 
w^as  he  joined  by  Rev.  John  McLeod,  from  Scotland.  Statedly 
he  preached  at  McNeill's  on  the  west  side  of  the  Cape  Fear,  below 
the  Bluff,  Clark's  on  Barbacue,  and  at  McKay's  on  the  Long 
Street.  Dr.  Foote's  information  is  that  "Longstreet  Church  was 
built  about  the  year  1765  or  1766,  the  time  at  Avhich  Barbacue 
was  built."  The  Bluff  Church  was  not  built  until  after  the  death 
of  Mr.  Campbell  about  the  year  17S7.  These  are  the  three  earliest 
church  organizations,  now  dating  back  one  hundred  and  twenty- 
eight  years.  The  first  ruling  elders  in  Longstreet  were  Malcom 
Smith,  Archibald  Ray,  and  Archibald   McKay. 

Sandy  Grove  Church,  the  subject  of  the  present  sketch  is  mainly 
an  offshoot  from  Longstreet  Church.  It  is  situated  in  the  sandy 
plains  (hence  its  name)  in  the  western  part  of  Cumberland 
County,  nearly  equi-distant  from  Longstreet,  Bethel,  and  Bethesda, 
about  eleven  or  twelve  miles  from  each.  It  is  located  on  the 
Fayetteville  and  Albemarle  Plank  road,  near  where  it  crosses 
Rockfish  Creek.  The  old  field  in  which  the  church  is  located  Avas 
known  then  as  "Egypt." 

The  people  of  this  section  are  the  descendants  of  those  early 
Scotch  settlers  of  whom  we  have  spoken,  together  with  later 
emigrants  from  Scotland.  Among  the  first  settlers  and  those  now 
resident,  we  find  the  names  of  McNeill,  Smith,  McLean,  Johnson, 
McCrimmon,  Shaw,  Beton  or  Bethune,  Graham,  McLeod,  Gillis, 


16 


History  of 


McDonald,  McCaskill,  Meliityre,  Lamoii,  Lament,  McMillan, 
Campbell,  Eay,  McRae,  McCraney,  Martin,  McCall,  McNatt, 
McGill,  Wilkinson,  McFayden,  McFarland,  McDiiffie,  Monroe, 
McKenzie,  Blue,  McGougan,  Leslie,  Currie,  McDoiigald,  McPlier- 
son,  Peterson,  Clark,  Patterson,  McKeithen,  Cameron,  McArthur, 
Buchan,  Black,  Wilson,  McLaren,  Finlayson,  Kennedy,  Ferguson, 
All  of  these  names  indicate  an  unniistakablv  Scottish  origin. 


J.  M.  Gkauam 

These  people  living  remote  from  any  church,  and  many  of  them 
having  poor  facilities  for  going  a  long  distance,  were  prompted 
to  seek  an  organization  more  convenient,  in  which  they  might 
worship  under  more  favorable  circumstances,  and  also  bring  up 
their  children  to  regular  church-going  habits. 

To  supply  their  destitution  occasional  services  were  held  in  pri- 
vate houses  by  dift'erent  ministers.  The  Rev.  John  Mclntyre 
perhaps  was  the  first  minister  who  attempted  to  supply  this  lack. 
Statedly  he  held  frequent  services  at  the  house  of  Neill  McCraney, 
on  the  Juniper  Creek.  A  note  in  the  margin  of  Dr.  Fairley's  man- 
uscript Avith  pencil,  and  later  than  body  of  sketch,  is  as  follows : 
^'Mclntyre  preached  first  at  Roderic  McCaskill's,  Mclver  at  Me- 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  17 

Craney's."  Owing  to  liis  great  age  and  general  infirmity,  the  Rev. 
Colin  Mclver  occasionally  relieved  liim  in  this  labor  of  love. 
The  Rev.  Archibald  Buie  and  Rev.  Archibald  Smith  also  did 
valuable  missionary  woi'k  through  this  section. 

At  length  the  congregation  grew  beyond  the  capacity  of  the 
private  dAvelling,  and  perhaps  to  reach  a  more  central  point  for 
the  neighborhood,  an  arbor  Avas  erected  in  the  old  field  above  the 
residence  of  the  late  Lauchlin  McLeod.  Here  religious  services  were 
held  during  the  milder  seasons  for  several  years.  These  were 
conducted  for  the  most  part  by  the  Rev.  Colin  Mclver,  who  gen- 
erally preached  in  the  Gaelic  language,  as  most  of  the  worshippers 
Avere  more  familiar  with  it  than  with  the  English,  though  not 
exclusiA'ely.  When  these  A^enerable  and  deA^oted  servants  of  God, 
Mclntyre  and  Mclver,  passed  aAvay,  their  loss  Avas  sorely  felt  in 
this  community.  They  being  so  long  their  spiritual  guides  the 
people  Avere  greatly  attached  to  them;  none  could  preach  and 
comfort  like  them,  none  could  give  them  the  Avord  in  their  native 
tongue.  The  Rev.  John  Monroe,  also  from  the  "Old  Country," 
a  godly  minister  of  the  Baptist  Church,  kindly  came  to  them  several 
times  and  preached  to  them  in  their  oavu  dialect. 

But  they  Avere  Scotch  Presbyterians,  and  looked  for  their  supply 
of  the  Word  from  the  Presbytery.  So  on  Christmas  day,  A.D. 
1852,  a  meeting  Avas  held  looking  forAvard  to  the  organization  of 
a  Presbyterian  Church.  The  meeting  was  held  in  the  old  field 
where  the  church  now  stands.  I  will  relate  a  little  incident  that 
occurred,  not  at  all  unusual  in  those  days,  but  rarer  since.  While 
this  congregation  Avas  assembling  on  that  occasion,  the  report  of 
a  gun  Avas  heard  nearby.  Soon  one  of  their  number  Avas  seen 
handling  a  fine  deer,  having  proved  his  skill  as  a  rifleman.  As 
late  as  that,  the  forests  abounded  with  game. 

All  the  citizens  having  assembled,  Mr.  J.  C.  Currie  Avas  chosen 
chairman  of  the  meeting,  which  decided  to  take  immediate  steps 
for  the  erection  of  a  Presbyterian  Church.  The  enterprise  met 
with  universal  favor.  In  January,  1853,  a  canvass  was  made  for 
the  necessary  funds,  the  amount  obtained,  and  the  contract  Avas 
let  out  to  competent  workmen. 

After  the  completion  of  the  building,  in  the  summer  of  1854, 
an  organization  was  prayed  for  at  the  hands  of  the  Presbytery, 


18 


History  of 


"wliicli  Avas  granted,  and  the  eliureli  organized  on  the  day 

of"  1855.     The  chnrch  was  organized  with  a  meni- 

bersliip  of  tw^enty,  and  tliree  ruling  elders,  viz :  Peter  Monroe, 
.Vrchibald  McLeod,  and  J.  L.  Campbell.    ■ 

It  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  early  records  of  Sandy  Grove  Church 
fell  into  the  hands  of  Sherman's  raiders,  and  were  destroyed.  Many 
facts  and  incidents  of  its  early  history  were  thus  lost  beyond 
recovery. 

The  Rev.  Duncan  McLean  was  the  first  to  supply  the  ncAV  church 
of  Sandy  Grove.     His  connection  Avith  it,  hoAvever,  Avas  of  short 


Rev.  James  McQxteen 

duration,  only  about  six  months  in  the  year  1855,  Avhen  he  Avas 
succeeded  by  the  Rev.,  James  McQueen,  a  licentiate  of  Fayetteville 
Presbytery,  who  served  it  as  stated  supply  until  March  27th,  1858, 
Avlien  he  Avas  regularly  installed  pastor  for  one-third  of  his  time; 
the  other  tAvo-thirds  were  given  to  Longstreet  and  Bethesda,  one- 
third  each.  Mr.  McQueen's  connection  with  the  church  was,  at 
his  OAvn  request,  dissolved  in  1865,  after  a  service  of  nine  years. 
It  embraced  the  period  of  the  late  war,  hence  it  Avas  not  a  pro- 
pitious })eriod  for  outward  groAvth.  Many  in  the  earlier  years 
of  his  ministry  were  added  to  the  church,  Avliile  in  the  latter  part 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church 


19 


the  numerical  decline  was  material.  This,  however,  was  not 
peculiar  to  Sandy  Grove,  as  the  burden  fell  where  there  were 
men  to  go  to  the  front.  Many  from  this  church  were  faithful  to 
their  country's  call,  and  went  out,  never  to  return.  But  in  the 
furnace  of  affliction  the  faith  of  many  shone  brighter,  and  whether 
doing  their  duty  on  the  field  of  battle,  suffering  the  privations  of 
hospital  and  prison,  or  in  patient  endurance  of  providing  at  home, 
there  were  not  a  few  members  of  Sandy  Grove  who  proved  faithful 
unto  death,  and  received  the  martyr's  crown. 


W.     J.     CURRIE 

Was  ordained  an  elder  in 
1867,  and  is  said  to  be  the  old- 
est elder  in  the  synod  of  North 
Carolina. 

i^otwitlistanding  the  adverse  circumstances  connected  with  Mr. 
McQueen's  ministry,  it  was  far  from  being  fruitless.  While  there 
were  no  special  revivals,  by  gradual  accessions  many  precious  souls 
were  gathered  into  Christ's  fold  by  his  faithful  and  conscientious 
ministry,  who  shall  shine  as  stars  in  his  crown  of  rejoicing. 

After  the  dissolution  of  the  pastoral  relation  with  Mr.  McQueen, 
the  church  was  vacant  until  the  spring  of  1867.  During  this  in- 
terval, however,  the  church  was  visited  with  a  memorable  revival. 


20 


History  of 


W.  J.  Bethune 


Rev.    J.   B.   McKinnon 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyteeian  Church  21 

In  the  winter  of  1866  the  Rev.  R..  G.  Graves,  of  Orange  Presbytery, 
preached  there  twelve  days.  ^N^otwithstanding  the  severity  of  the 
weather  (much  of  the  time  snow  was  on  the  ground),  the  con- 
gregations were  large  and  attentive.  The  special  presence  of  the 
Holy  Spirit  was  manifest  throughout.  The  immediate  results  of 
this  work  of  grace  were  great.  T^ew  life  was  inspired  into  the 
church,  and  thirty  persons  were  received  into  its  communion,  many 
of  them  young  men.  In  the  Spring  of  1867  the  ministerial  serv- 
ices of  the  Rev,  J.  B.  McKinnon,  a  licentiate  of  Fayetteville 
Presbytery,  were  obtained.  He  had  not  finished  his  theological 
course,  and  preached  only  a  few  months  when  he  returned  to 
complete  his  studies.  During  his  absence,  the  Rev.  K.  M.  Mclntyre 
filled  the  pulpit  very  acceptably.  It  was  hoped  that  permanent 
relations  could  be  established  with  the  gifted  young  McKinnon,  but 
it  was  otherwise  ordered.,  He  had  preached  but  a  little  while 
after  his  return  when  he  suddenly  heard  the  summons  "come  up 
higher."  On  the  16th  of  April,  1868,  he  was  instantly  killed  by 
a  stroke  of  lightning  while  standing  in  a  store  at  Laurinburg. 
His  last  sermon  before  his  death  was  preached  in  the  Sandy  Grove 
pulpit  from  the  text  "I  would  not  live  ahvay."  Little  did  pastor 
or  hearers  then  dream  that  his  earthly  life  was  so  near  the  end, 
that  he  would  ascend  so  soon  in  a  chariot  of  fire  to  the  everlasting 
life  beyond.     Alas,  "we  know  not  what  a  day  may  bring  forth." 

The  attention  of  the  congregation  was  then  directed  to  the  Rev. 
J.  P.  McPherson,  so  long  the  efficient  clerk  of  the  Presbytery,  who 
soon  succeeded  Mr.  McKinnon.  He  continued  to  supply  the  church 
for  five  years,  until  January,  1872,  when  he  left  to  take  charge 
of  Lumber  Bridge  Church.  He  was  punctual  and  faithful  in 
the  discharge  of  his  ministerial  duties,  and  there  was  a  gradual 
growth  both  in  numbers  and  spirituality  under  his  ministrations. 
He  was  a  great  favorite  especially  with  the  aged  and  those  who 
could  hear  only  with  difficulty.  His  strong,  clear  voice  and  splen- 
did articulation  made  him  easily  and  distinctly  heard  by  all. 
He  was  social  in  his  habits,  and  was  always  welcomed  at  the  homes 
of  his  people,  and  they  were  sorry  when  he  left  them. 

Rev.  JSTeill  McKay,  D.  D.,  was  the  next  stated  supply.  In  the 
spring  of  1872  he  commenced  giving  a  monthly  service  which 
continued  for  two  years.     His  superior  ability  as  a  man  and  a 


92 


History  of 


Rev.  J.   P.  McPherson 


Rev.  Neill  McKay 


Sandy  Geove  Presbyterian  Church  23 

minister  was  acknowledged  by  all.  The  only  regret  was  he  was 
with  them  so  seldom.  His  home  was  remote  from  them,  more 
than  forty  miles,  which  made  it  impracticable  for  him  to  do 
mnch  visiting  or  preaching  other  than  at  the  stated  appointments. 
It  is  rather  a  remarkable  fact  that  all  the  stated  supplies  of  this 
church  since  1865  have  lived  at  a  distance,  not  nearer  than  twenty 
miles.  This  has  been  unfortunate  in  different  respects.  They 
have  consequently  not  had  the  advantages  of  pastoral  visitation, 
that  comingling  of  pastor  and  people,  which  is  often  of  great 
advantage  to  both. 

For  a  few  months  in  IS 74,  Rev.  Kenneth  McDonald  supplied 
the  church.  In  the  fall  of  that  year,  Rev.  D.  Fairley  took  charge 
of  the  church  as  a  stated  supply,  giving  one  Sabbath  in  each 
three.  This  same  arrangement  continues  to  the  present.  It  is 
the  longest  service  by  any  minister  since  its  organization,  a  period 
of  nineteen  years  up  to  the  present. 

In  all  these  years  there  has  been  much  sameness  in  its  history 
from  year  to  year.  The  minister  has  annually  endeavored  to 
faithfully  discharge  his  obligations,  meeting  his  regular  appoint- 
ments., In  addition  to  these  he  has  preached  at  other  intervals, 
as  opportunity  afforded.  His  extended  field,  however,  embracing 
often  four  of  five  other  congregations,  prevented  him  from  doing 
as  much  of  this  as  he  desired.  The  people  have  generally  and 
regularly  attended  the  ministrations  of  the  Word  and  ordinances 
with  attention  and  docility,  and  it  is  hoped  with  profit.  It  has 
been  the  uniform  custom  of  this  church  to  observe  biannual 
communion  services,  iisually  termed  spring  and  fall  sacraments. 
At  these  communion  seasons,  there  are  usually  additions  to  our 
membership,  more  or  less,  it  is  the  exception  when  there  are  none. 
Perhaps  this  gradual  coming  into  the  church  indicates  a  healthier 
state  of  piety  than  a  great  influx  now  and  then. 

Only  once  was  there  a  general  awakening  or  revival.  It  was 
in  November,  1885.  Rev.  Martin  McQueen,  of  blessed  memory, 
assisted  on  that  occasion.  He  did  nearly  all  the  preaching,  and 
showed  himself  a  scribe  well  instructed  in  the  things  of  the 
kingdom.  He  preached  with  unusual  fervor  and  power.  God 
honored  the  Word.  He  heard  His  people's  cry.  During  that 
precious  season  of  revival,  the  whole  community  was  stirred,  back- 


24  History  of 

sliders  Avere  reclaimed,  Christians  were  wondci'fully  (juickfiied, 
■\vliile  there  was  a  new  impulse  given  to  all  church  work.  Forty- 
one  persons  were  added  to  the  communion  of  the  church,  the 
largest  accession  in  the  history  of  the  church  during  one  year. 

Sandy  Grove  Church  has  sent  out  three  ministers  of  the  Gospel : 
Dougald,  Colin  A.,  and  E.  Marshall  Monroe,  all  sons  of  one  of 
its  first  ruling  elders,  Mr.  Peter  Monroe.  From  its  memhership 
it  has  sent  out  efficient  church  ofiicers  to  Bethesda,  Maxton,  Red 
Springs,  Lauriiihurg,  Davidson  College,  and  other  churches. 

Of  the  three  original  ruling  elders,  only  one  survives.  Mr.  A. 
McLeod  is  still  with  us,  the  Patriarch  of  the  session.  Mr.  J.  L. 
Camphcll  died  in  the  service  of  his  country,  and  his  resting  place 
is  not  known.  He  was  a  good  man,  and  much  esteemed  as  a  wise 
and  faithful  church  officer. 

Mr.  P.  Monroe,  after  a  ])ainful  and  wasting  malady,  died  Jan- 
uary 16th,  1888,  in  the  seventy-sixth  year  of  his  age.  He  was  a 
man  of  great  energy,  of  character  and  of  sterling  integrity,  a  ruler 
worthy  of  douhle  honor.  His  removal  Avas  a  sore  loss  to  the 
church  as  its  welfare  temporally  and  spiritually  was  always  near 
his  heart.  In  his  protracted  sickness  he  Avas  Avonderfully  com- 
forted and  sustained  hy  the  hopes  of  the  Gospel.  He  was  priv- 
ileged to  see  all  his  children  grown  up  and  educated,  and  three  of 
his  sons  in  the  ministry.  How  forcibly  is  God's  Word  illustrated : 
"Them  that  honor  me  I  will  honor." 

In  the  year  1867  the  session  was  enlarged  by  the  election  of 
William  J.  (Uirrie  and  Dougald  Monroe.  Again,  on  November 
22nd,  1873,  by  the  addition  of  N.  S.  Blue,  J.  A.  Gillis,  and  D.  K. 
McDuffie., 

The  first  deacons  were  J.  M.  Graham  and  Daniel  C.  McCaskill, 
but  the  date  of  their  ordination  is  not  known.  Daniel  C.  McCaskill 
Avas  killed  in  battle  July,  1863.  In  1872,  A.  D.  McLeod  and 
Wm.  J.  Bethune  Avere  added  to  the  diaeonate.  Again,  November 
22nd,  is7;5,  D.  J.  Gillis  and  John  Blue  Avere  ordained  deacons. 
Owing  10  the  removal  of  J.  M.  Graham  to  Bethel,  of  William 
J.  Bethune  to  the  Baptist  church,  and  of  D.  J.  Gillis  to  the 
eldership,  the  board  of  deacons  Avas  again  increased  on  November 
21st,  18S4,  by  the  ordination  of  D.  J.  Patterson  and  M.  A.  Gillis. 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church 


25 


R.   McCASKir.L 


J.    C.    McCa.skii.i, 


26 


History  of 


]).  J.  .Fntterson  having  been  elected  to  the  eldership,  and  John 
Bine  dismissed  to  Bethesda,  in  Jannary,  1891,  M.  C.  Campbell 
and  T).  B.  Campbell  were  added  to  the  diaconate. 

Sandy  Grove  has  ever  maintained  an  interest  in  Sabbath 
school  work.  In  its  early  history,  the  schools  were  allowed  to 
dwindle  and  die  out  during  the  hardest  of  the  winter  months  to 
be  revived  during  the  Spring.  But  for  a  number  of  years  past 
new  life  and  zeal  has  been  infused  into  them,  and  iney  have  been 
kept  up  the  year   round,   and  are  generally  well   attended.     The 


Daniel  McCaskill 


congregation  is  now  divich'd  into  three  schools,  viz :  at  the  church, 
Cabin  Branch  schoolhouse,  and  Blue's  schoolhouse.  These  are  all 
under  the  supervision  of  the  session,  and  are  so  divided  that  the 
children  may  more  conveniently  attend  them.  The  international 
lessons  and  our  own  catechisms  are  taught. 

The  system  of  beneficence  adopted  by  the  church  is  that  com- 
monly observed  in  all  our  churches,  of  taking  up  collections  as 
often  as  we  meet  for  worship,  following  the  Assembly's  plan. 
Por  the  last  few  years  there  is  an  increase  in  the  contributions  of 
the  church  and  evidently  a  more  hearty  sympathy  in  every  branch 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  27 


M.  McLeod 


A.  D.  McLeod 


28  History  of 

of  churcli  work.  This  ehurcli  lias  always  endeavored  to  meet  its 
pecuniary  obligations  to  those  who  supply  it  with  the  ministrations 
of  the  word. 

Since  the  organization  of  Sandy  Grove  Churcli,  there  has  never 
been  a  permanent  academy  or  school  in  its  hounds.  While  this  is 
to  be  deplored,  the  community  has  not  been  destitute  of  educational 
advantages.  At  different  points  in  the  congregations,  good  schools 
have  been  kept  up,  generally  through  the  fall  and  wdnter  months 
of  each  year,  affording  an  opportunity  for  a  liberal  education 
to  all.. 

Here  then,  for  the  present,  we  raise  our  Ebenezer,  thanking  God 
for  Avhat  He  has  done  for  us  in  the  past,  and  trusting  the  same 
hand  that  has  brought  us  into  this  grace  Avherein  we  stand  to 
lead  us  through  whatever  trials  may  be  before  us,  and  to  do  greater 
things  for  the  honor  and  glory  of  His  name.     Amen. 


DEATH  OF  REV.  DAVID  FAIRLEY 

A  VENERABLE  AND   SAINTLY   MLNISTER  OF   THE   GOSPEL  PASSES 
AWAY  AFTER  A  LONG  LIFE  OF  SERVICE 

(Fayetteville  Observer  of  October  23d.) 
Rev.   David   Fairley,   D.D.,   died    at    10:45    last   night    in    this 
city,  at  the  home  of  his  son  Rev.  W.  M.  Fairley,  in  his  eighty- 
second  year.     He  had  been  in  declining  health  for  some  time. 

Dr.  Fairley  was  one  of  the  oldest  ministers  in  the  Synod  of 
North  Carolina.  On  the  fourth  Sunday  in  May,  1856,  he  was 
ordained  as  pastor  of  China  Grove  church.  In  1858  he  was 
ordained  pastor  of  Long  Street  church,  in  w^estern  Cumberland,  and 
during  all  the  54  years  since  that  time  he  has  been  the  faithful 
shepherd  of  that  flock.  For  many  years  he  has  liad  charge  of 
Galatia  church. 

At  the  time  of  his  death.  Dr.  Fairley  w-as  pastor  of  Long  Street, 
Galatia,  and  the  Church  of  the  Covenant,  the  latter  at  Manchester, 
and  also  ministered  unto  Sandy  Grove,  of  which  he  was  once 
pastor. 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  29 

He  was  truly  a  man  of  God,  patient,  gentle,  loving,  yet  firm 
as  a  rock  in  liis  stand  for  the  riglit,  and  with  a  will  of  iron  to 
battle  against  evil  doing.  His  people,  loved  him  for  all  the  years 
of  service  and  self  sacrifice  he  had  given  to  them.  As  they  sat 
under  his  teaching,  he  revealed  unto  them  the  unsearchable  riches 
of  Christ.  And  in  all  his  long  ministry,  he  Avent  in  and  out 
among  them  burying  their  dead,  christening  their  children,  marry- 
i]ig  their  sons  and  daughters,  deeds  which  marked  in  him  the  per- 
fect man,  who  day  by  day,  leaning  upon  that  Gospel  which  he 
preached,  was  able  to  say  exultingly,  "I  know  in  whom  I  have 
believed,"  for  in  simple  faith  he  found  the  strength  to  do  His  will. 

Dr.  Fairley  was  a  brave  Confederate  sold,ier,  and  served  as 
chaplain  in  the  27th  IST.  C.  Regiment  1862-64.  He  was  the  be- 
loved and  honored  chaplain  of  Camp  jSTo.  852,  Confederate  vet- 
erans. 'No  man  has  lived  and  died  in  the  Upper  Cape  Fear  sec- 
tion, who  was  more  universally  loved  and  honored  than  the  ven- 
erable David  Fairley,  and  the  news  of  his  death  will  bring  sadness 
to  many  households,  especially  in  the  rural  districts  where  he 
labored. 

Dr.  Fairley  is  survived  by  his  wife  and  seven  children — three 
sons  and  four  daughters,  as  follows :  Mr.  A.  M.  Fairley  of  Lau- 
rinburg.  Miss  Kate  Fairley  of  Fayetteville,  Mr.  D.  M.  Fairley 
of  Manchester,  Rev.  Watson  M.  Fairley  of  Fayetteville,  Mrs.  S.  JST. 
Harrell  and  Mrs.  Janie  Roberson  of  Tarboro  and  Mrs.  A.  G. 
Carter  of  Sanford.  The  bereaved  family  have  the  deep  sympathy 
of  this  whole  section. 

The  funeral  will  be  held  tomorrow  from  the  First  Baptist  church 
at  3  o'clock,  and  the  burial  Avill  be  in  Cross  Creek  cemetery.  The 
Presbyterian  church  is  undergoing  remodeling  and  cannot  be 
used. 


Sandy  Grove,  September  7,  1879 

A  Pastoral  letter  was  adopted  by  the  session  of  this  church 
and  ordered  to  be  read  from  the  pulpit  and  a  copy  of  it  to  be 
sent  to  those  members  that  are  irregular  in  their  attendance  upon 
public  worship,  which  is  as  follows : 


30  HiSTOKV     OK 

Clii'isTiaii  Hrctlicrcii.  As  office  hcai'crs  in  the  cliurcli  of  God, 
it  is  made  our  soleiiin  duty  to  iiiaiiitaiii  the  spii'itnal  iiovermnent 
of  the  eoiigregatioii  over  wliich  we  are  placed.  In  orcU'r  to  effect 
tliis  we  are  to  inquire  into  the  knowledge  and  christian  conduct 
of  the  nieiiil)ei-s  of  tlu'  (diurch — to  admonish,  to  rebuke,  to  suspend, 
to  ex(du(le  from  the  sacraments  those  who  are  found  to  deserve 
censure  and  to  concert  the  best  measures  for  the  spiritual  in- 
terests of  the  congregation. 

It  has  been  to  us  a  source  of  painful  solicitude  that  there  are 
some  uncU'r  our  jurisdiction,  members  of  the  church,  who  neglect 
or  despise  the  Divine  Ordinances.  We  have  observed  on  the  part 
of  some  great  irregularity  in  theii-  attendance  upon  public  worship, 
others  have  \v(dl  nigh  deserted  the  house  of  God  and  forsaken 
our  solemn  feasts.  There  may  be  in  some  instances  a  just  cause 
of  detention  fi'om  ])ublir  woi'ship,  but  for  tlie  most  part  Ave  fear 
it  is  fi'oni  sliear  neglect. 

Uuih'i'  this  a])pi'ehension  we  feed  constrained  to  achlress  you  this 
Pastoral  b'tter  in  (diristian  love.  We  liO])e  by  tliis  method  to  stir 
i\\)  your  pure  minds  by  way  of  remembrance.  You  Avill  remember 
that  the  religious  Avoi'shi])  of  God  both  public  and  ])riA'ate  Avith 
the  expounding  and  ])rea(diing  of  the  Avord,  the  administi'ation  of 
the  Sacraments,  the  otfering  of  prayer  and  the  singing  of  the 
praises  of  God  are  among  the  means  of  grace  established  by  Christ 
for  the  salvation  of  men.  To  the  natural  man  these  Ordinances 
are  "foolishness,"  yet  their  purpose  is  to  aAvaken,  enlighten  and 
quicken  him.  To  tJie  believer  they  are  ]nx'cious,  and  are  designed 
to  make  him  grow  in  gi'ace  and  in  tlie  knowledge  of  our  Lord  and 
Saviour  desus  (Uirist. 

They  afford  the  fullest  and  (dearest  nuinifestations  of  the  divine 
glory  on  this  si(b'  of  Heaven.  Yea,  they  Avere  instituted  by  Christ 
foi-  the  display  of  his  own  honor  and  glory.  He  is  glorified  by 
our  owning  him  and  making  a  j)tiblic  ])rofession  of  his  name.  He 
(h'signed  also,  our  good,  through  this  medium  wo  have  access  to  Him 
and  communion  with  Ilim.  What  a  nu'rcy  such  arrangements  are 
made!  Any  just  considei'ation  of  these  immense  resources  of 
God's  Chnr(di  and  peoi)le  ought  to  fill  our  hearts  Avith  aAve  and 
joy.  These  sacred  institutions  are  not  to  be  despised  or  condemned 
by  any  Avithout  incurring  great  guilt.  It  is  no  snuill  matter  to 
slight  or  neglect  the  precious  ordinances  which  God  has  appointed 


Sandy  Grove  Prksbvterian  Church  31 

for  our  salvation.  Profanely  to  withdraw  ourselves  from  them 
or  to  absent  ourselves  for  trivial  causes  is  to  dishonor  Christ  and 
to  trample  upon  his  authority.  It  is  to  slight  our  privileges  and 
to  pour  contempt  on  God's  gracious  condecension.  It  is  to  trifle 
with  things  beyond  expression  important. 

Remember,  brethren,  we  "watch  for  your  souls  as  they  that 
must  give  an  account."  Most  affectionately  do  we  caution  you 
against  this  sin,  and  that  you  heed  the  apostolic  exhortation  ''for- 
sake not  the  assembling  of  yourselves  together,  as  the  manner  of 
some  is."  It  is  our  christian  regard  for  you  and  love  for  the 
peace,  purity  and  welfare  of  the  church  of  Jesus  Christ  that  has 
prompted  this  letter  which  is  sent  to  you  by  order  of  the  session. 
Closed  with  prayer, 

J.  A.  GiLLis.  Clerl-. 


SKETCH  OF  PETER  MONROE'S  FAMILY 

IN'o  history  of  Sandy  Grove  Church  would  be  complete  Avithout 
special  mention  of  Peter  Monroe  and  the  members  of  his  family. 
Mr.  Monroe  and  his  wife,  Avho  before  marriage  was  Isabella  Jane 
Cameron  of  Cameron  Hill,  were  deeply  religious  and  much 
interested  in  education  of  a  religious  type:  Mr.  Monroe  was  an 
architect  and  contractor  in  the  early  days  of  his  life  and  a  con- 
siderable portion  of  his  work  in  that  line  was  the  construction 
of  churches  and  school  buildings.  He  designed  and  built  a  court 
house  and  jail  in  Montgomery  county  as  early  as  1845.  Some  time 
after  that  he  built  Pee  Dee  Presbyterian  church,  in  1850  Spring- 
Hill  Baptist  Church  and  Montj)elier  Presbyterian  Church,  Bethel 
in  1852,  also  in  the  same  year  Laurinburg  Academy.  In  1854  before 
building  a  house  for  himself  he  built  the  Sandy  Grove  church,  but 
had  moved  into  that  locality  buying  a  house  for  a  temporary  resi- 
dence, but  later  built  and  made  that  his  permanent  residence. 
While  engaged  in  erecting  church  and  school  buildings  Mr.  Monroe 
and  his  faithful  wife  were  raising  and  training  several  sons  and 
one  daughter  who  Avere  later  to  take  prominent  places  in  the  Presby- 
terian church  and  in  the  work  of  education.  The  last  church 
building  of  any  note,  constructed  by  Mr.  Monroe  was  Galatia  in 
Cumberland  County,  in  1862.     The  oldest  son  Evander  Monroe 


32  History  of 

liad  decided  to  consecrate  liis  strong  young  manhood  to  the  Gospel 
ministry,  hut  having  responded  to  the  call  of  his  country  during  the 
war  between  the  states  his  life  was  lost  in  February  1S65.  Two 
sons  besides  Evander  served  in  the  Confederate  army,  C.  A. 
Monroe  and  Dougald  Monroe.      These  two  with  a  younger  brother 


Mi!s.    Pktki:    M<)m;oe 

E.  M.  Monroe  after  graduating  at  Davidson  College  and  complet- 
ing full  courses  at  Union  Theological  Seminary,  entered  the  Gos- 
pel Ministry,  all  three  being  licensed  at  the  same  time.  The 
next  son  in  order,  A.  C.  Monroe,  the  only  one  who  did  not  com- 
plete his  course  in  college,  settled  at  the  old  homestead  after  giving 
most  of  his  life  to  teaching  and  Avas  engaged  in  farming.  The 
next  son  J.  P.  Monroe  engaged  in  teaching  for  several  years 
after   graduation    at   Davidson    College,    after   which    he   took   up 


Sandy  Grove  Presbytesian   Church 


33 


Rev.   Colin   Monroe,    D.D. 


Rev.  Dougald  Monroe 


34 


History  of 


tlie  study  of  inedicinc  iiiid  is  now  one  of  tlic  Icadiuc,'  physicians 
in  North  (Carolina.  Thv  one  daughter  Alai'garct  J.  Monroe  after 
ij,ra<huition  at  Peace  Institute  was  married  to  Mah-ohn  J.  Bhie  and 
located  in  Orange  County,  I^.  C.  It  wouhl  he  interesting  to  follow 
the  history  of  the  descendants  of  this  faiiiilv,  liowever,  time  and 


Rkv.  E.  M.  Momjok.  D.D. 


Space  in  these  aniuils  foi'hid,  suthce  it  to  say,  wherever  they  have 
gone  they  have  furnished  proof  ])Ositive  that  piety,  perseverance, 
and  J*i'esl)ytei'ianism  constitute  ;i  valuahle  asset  in  any  community. 

The   Session   ^Vdopted   the  Following   Kesolutions :     In   Eespect 
to  the  Meniorv  of  Peter  Monroe: 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyteriak   Church  35 


A.   C.   Monroe 


J.  P.  Monroe,  M.D. 


36  History  of 

It  is  with  unfeigned  sorrow  tliat  we,  tlie  Session  of  Sandy  Grove 
Church,  record  the  death  of  our  beloved  Brotlier  and  fellowlaborer, 
Peter  Monroe.  He  died  of  cancer  January  17,  1888,  in  the  76th 
year  of  his  age.  Mr.  Monroe  was  an  important  factor  and  was 
associated  with  the  history  of  the  church  from  its  organization, 
being  one  of  its  first  Eklers.  He  took  the  deej^est  interest  in  tem- 
poral and  spiritual  welfare,  supporting  it  by  his  means,  influence 
and  prayers.  He  was  fully  in  symi)atliy  with  its  every  scheme 
which  liad  for  its  object  the  moral  and  religious  development  of 
his  community. 

Mr.  Monroe  was  twice  married.  He  had  six  sons  and  one 
daughter  l)y  the  first  marriage.  The  eldest  son  fell  in  the  cause 
of  his  country.  The  crowning  joy  of  his  life  was  to  see  his  children 
all  educated  and  hopefully  converted,  three  of  them  serving  the 
God  of  their  father  in  the  ministry  and  one  a  Ruling  Elder. 

Whereas,  it  has  pleased  our  Heavenly  Father  to  call  our  Brother 
from  the  church  militant  to  the  church  triumphant;  therefore 

Resolred.  That  in  this  afflictive  visitation  we  bow  submissively 
to  the  Divine  will,  liuml)ly  acknowledging  His  unerring  wisdom 
and  sovereign  right  to  do  as  seemeth  Him  good. 

ResoJved,  That  we  bear  testimony  to  the  character  of  him  as  a 
man  of  unaifected  piety,  zeal  and  disinterested  devotion  to  all  the 
interest  of  our  beloved  Zion. 

Resolcecl,  That  we  cherish  a  grateful  remembrance  of  the  many 
estimable  qualities  that  adorn  the  character  and  life  of  our  de- 
parted Brother,  his  genial  spirit,  his  courteous  address,  his  consci- 
entious devotion  to  duty. 

Resolved,  That  while  our  grief  in  being  called  to  part  for  a  season 
Avith  our  Brother,  finds  in  words  no  adequate  expression.  We 
can  but  give  thanks  to  God  for  the  years  of  our  happy  com- 
panionship with  him,  and  for  the  noble  example  he  leaves  us 
of  a  life  consecrated  in  all  its  remarkable  activities  to  the  service 
of  his  blessed  Lord  and  Master. 

Resolved,  That  we  extend  our  sincere  sympathy  to  the  family 
of  our  Brother,  commending  them  by  these  words  and  our  pray- 
ers to  Him  who  came  to  preach  good  Tidings  to  the  meek,  to 
bind  up  the  brokenhearted,  to  comfort  all  that  mourn,  to  appoint 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  37 


EvANDER    Monroe 


Mrs.   Margaret   J.   Monroe   Blue 


38  Hl.STOKY    OF 

Tuito  them  that  iiKnini  in  Zioii,  to  give  tliem  beauty  for  ashes, 
the  oil  of  joy  for  iiiouriiiiig,  the  gariiieiit  of  praise  for  the  spirit 
of  heaviness. 

Resoircil,  That  tlie  foregoing  resolutions  be  entered  upon  the 
minutes  of  the  Session  and  that  the  Secretary  be  requested  to 
send  a  copy  to  the  family  of  our  deceased  Brother. 

By  order  of  the  session, 

J.  A.  GiLLis,  Clorl'. 


HISTORY  OF  SANDY  GROVE  CHURCH  FROM 
1893-1916 

As  Dr.  David  Fairley  stated  in  a  preceding  article,  he  began 
to  serve  Sandy  Grove  as  stated  supply  in  1S74.  Unfortunately 
his  manuscript  was  discontinued  in  1893.  However  Dr.  Fairley 
continued  to  serve  as  stated  supply  tAvo  more  years,  until  1895 
when  he  was  called  as  pastor.  He  served  as  pastor  until  he 
tendered  his  resignation  April  21,  1898. 

About  this  time  the  church  suffered  a  great  loss  in  the  death 
of  three  of  her  Oldest  Elders :  Archibald  McLeod,  John  A.  Gillis, 
and  Duncan  J.  Patterson  ;  and  also  Messrs.  Angus  Ray,  Malcomb 
Monroe,  and  Alex.  Blue.  These  men  spent  their  lives  in  the 
church  and  community,  and  weilded  an  influence  for  good,  per- 
haps greater  than  that  of  any  other  like  number  of  its  members. 

Perhaps  the  greatest  mistake  the  church  ever  made  was  to  fail 
to  estal)lish  a  high  school  within  its  bounds  to  educate  its  own 
children.  As  the  people  began  to  awaken  to  the  necessity  of 
education  many  of  them  moved  aAvay,  nearer  to  schools.  About 
1898  Neill  S.  Blue,  J.  A.  Ulue,  Daniel  McKeithan,  D.  K.  McDufiie, 
and  Mrs.  Catherine  Gillis  moved  to  Raeford ;  Mrs.  Flora  M. 
Ray,  to  Sanford;  and  M.  C.  Campbell,  to  Florida. 

While  some  of  these  have  never  moved  their  membership  and 
are  still  among  the  most  loyal  supporters  of  the  church,  most  of 
them  however  did  move  their  mend)ership,  and  the  children  of 
these  parents  joined  otlier  clnirches.  This,  to  a  great  extent  ac- 
counts for  tlie  falling  off  in  nicnibershi})  from  120  in  1894  to  43 
in  190r>. 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church 


D.    J.    Patterson 


John  A.  Gillis 


40 


History  of 


In  the  two  summers  following  Kev.  David  Fairley's  resignation 
as  pastor,  in  1898,  and  '99  his  son,  Candidate  Watson  Fairley 
supplied  the  pulpit  for  three  months  each.  In  the  period  from 
then  until  1902  the  church  was  supplied  for  short  periods  each 
by  Eev.  W.  R  Coppedge,  Kev.  E.  W.  Alexander,  Eev.  M.  N. 
Mclver,  Licentiate  J.  A.   Calligaii,   and   Candidate   T.   S.   Haney. 


Mk.   anu   Mks.  Anuus   Ray 


In  1902  Eev.  David  Fairley  returned  to  the  church  as  stated 
supply  and  served  until  April  1911  Avhen,  on  account  of  the  in- 
firmities of  age,  he,  being  81,  asked  Presbytery  to  relieve  him  of 
a  part  of  his  work,  including  that  at  Sandy  Grove.  His  request 
was  granted,  thus  closing  a  service  of  33  years  as  pastor  or  stated 
supply  of  the  church.  During  the  four  years  from  1898  to  1902 
the  church  was  without  a  regular  i)astor  but  was  supplied  by  a 
candidate,  but  Dr.  Fairley  also  preached  several  times  each  year. 
He  was  closely  connected  with  the  work  of  the  church  for  37  years. 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church 


41 


D.     J.     GiLLIS 


Mr.  and  Mrs.  D.  K.  McDuffie 


42 


HiSTOEY    OK 


Rev.   W.   M.   Fairley,   D.D. 


Rev.  J.  A.  Calligan 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church  43 

During  the  summer  of  1909  in  appreciation  of  liis  services  and 
to  sliow  their  love  for  him  the  church  presented  Dr.  Fairley  a  gold- 
headed  cane,  purchased  by  57  contributions. 

In  April,  1909  revival  services  were  held  by  Rev.  D.  Fairley 
assisted  by  Rev.  L.  W.  Curtis;  12  new  members  were  received. 


Rev.   W.  C.   Browjj 

All  along  it  was  deemed  necessary  that  new  oificers  should  be 
elected.  On  August  11,  1901  John  J.  McFadyen  and  M.  A. 
Patterson  were  ordained  elders;  and  S.  J.  Cameron  deacon.  On 
June  17,  1917  S.  J.  Cameron,  H.  J.  Rogers,  and  Lonnie  Currie 
were  ordained  elders;  and  D.  N.  Leslie,  E.  W.  Cameron,  Alex  B. 
Cameron,  deacons. 


44 


History  of 


Rkv.  J.  D.  A.  Brown 


Rev.  W.  a.  McLeod.  D.D. 


Sandy  Grove  Peesbyterian  Church 


45 


In  1911  and  1912  Eev.  W.  C.  Brown  supplied  the  church  giving 
one  evening  service  a  month  for  six  months.  In  1913  Rev.  J.  D.  A. 
Brown  came  as  stated  supply  and  continued  to  serve  as  such  until 


Mr.  AM)  Mi!s.   D.  B.   Campheil 


April  1915.  Through  the  summer  of  1915  the  church  w^as  sup- 
plied by  Robert  T.  Wallace,  a  student  from  Union  Theological 
Seminary,  Richmond,  Virginia.     This  most  excellent  young  man 


46 


History  of 


did  u  great  work  for  tlic  ehui'cli.  In  August,  just  before  Mr. 
Wallace's  labors  ended,  Kev.  W.  A.  McLeod,  D.D.,  assisted  by 
Rev.  W.  C.  Brown,  held  the  most  gracious  revival  the  church  had 
en  jovecl  in  nuuiy  years.  They  preached  the  word  with  such  power 
and  ehxiuence  that  the  whole  church  was  revived  and  strengthened, 
and    IT   members  were  added. 


A.   V.   Ray 

The  chni'ch  was  without  a  regular  preacher  through  the  winter 
of  l!M.">-l(i  ;ind  until  June  4,  1916  wlu'u  Ivev.  Eugene  Alexander 
took  u[)  the  work  as  })astor.      (I  now  leave  the  history  Avith  him.) 


ROLL  OF  MLNISTERS 

Rev.  Duncan  McLean,  supply,  1855. 

Rev.  James  McQueen,  pastor  1858-1865. 

Rev.   John   B.   McKinnon,   supply,   1867-1868. 

Rev.  Kenneth  M.  Mclntyre,  suppl}',  six  months. 

Rev.  James  P.  McPherson,  supply,  1868-1872. 

Rev.  Neill  McKay,  D.D.,  supply,  1872-1874. 

Rev.  Kenneth  McDonald,  supply,  six  mouths,  1874. 


Hu])pli(Ml    from    1S9S-1903. 


Saady  Grove   Presbyteeian   Chirch  47 

Eev.  David  Fairley,  supply,   1874-1898. 
Candidate  Watson  Fairley,  six  months,  1S9S-1S99. 
Rev.  R.  W.  Alexander. 
Rev.  W.  R.  Coppedge, 
Rev.  M.  N.  Mclver, 
Licentiate  J.  A.  Calligan, 
Rev.  T.  F.  Haney, 

Rev.  David  Fairley,  supplied,  1903-1911. 
Rev.  W.  C.  Brown,  supplied,  1911-1913. 
Rev.  J.  D.  A.  Brown,  supi)lied,  1913-1916. 
Rev.  Eugene  Alexander,  1916-1933. 
Rev.  A.  b.  Carswell,  1924-193.5. 

Roll  of  Ministers  sent  out 
Dougald  Monroe,  Licensed  at  Center  April,  1876. 
Colin  Monroe,  Licensed  at  Center  April,  1876. 
E.  M.  Monroe,  Licensed  at  Center  April,  1876. 


NAMES  OF  THE  TRUSTEES 

John  C.  Currie 
Angus  Ray 
Neill  McK.  Blue 
Duncan  J.  Patterson 
L.  A.  Blue 
Samuel  J.  Cameron 
Murdoch  Campbell 
Alex  B.  Cameron 
Neill  A.  McFadyen 


48 


History  of 


THE  REGISTER  OF  ELDERS 


Name 

When 
Ordained 

Peter  Monroe 

1855 

Aichibald  McLeod 

1855 

John  L.  Campbell 

1855 

William  J.  Currie 

181)7 

Dugald  Monroe 

1868 

John  A .  Gillis 

1873 

Duncan  K.  McDuffie- 

1873 

Neill  S.  Blue 

1873 

John  P.  Monroe 

1884 

Duncan  J.  Gillis 

1884 

Murdoch  McLeod 

1884 

D.  J.  Patterson 

1890 

A.  C.  Monroe 

1891 

J.  J.  McFadyen 

1901 

M.  A.  Patterson 

1901 

Samuel  J.  Cameron 

1917 

H.  J.  Rogers 

1917 

Lonnie  Currie 

1917 

When  Dismissed 

Died 

January  14,  1888 

November  27,  1895 

August,  1862 

Center,  1877 

Began  to  preach 

April,  1876 
January  16,  1890 

Raeford,  1900 

Durham,  1886 

Shiloh,  1889 

April  27,  1898 

July  15,  192a 

November  20,  1910 

.^ 

M.  E.  Church,  Lumberton,  1919 

Buckingham,  Va.,  1919 

THE  REGLSTER  OF  DEACONS 


Name 

When 
Ordained 

When  Dismissed 

Died 

John  M.  Graham 

Bethel,  1881 

Philadelphus,  1885 

Daniel  C   McCaskill 

July  4,  1853 

Baptist  Church,  Bunns  Level,  1885- ._ 
Bethesda,  1889 

1873 
1884 
1884 
1890 
1890 
1901 
1917 
1917 
1917 

D.  B.  Campbell 

Murdoch  Campbell 

February  24,  1910 

D    N    Leslie 

E.  W.  Cameron 

August  15,  1925 

Sandy  Grove  Presbytekian  Church 


49 


MY  PASTORATE  AT  SANDY  GROVE  CHURCH, 
1916-1923 

Eugene  Alexander 

It  would  be  impossible,  should  it  be  desirable,  for  one  to  reduce 
to  writing  all  tlie  impressions  and  facts  about  this  pastorate  of 
seven  years.     There  are,  however,  many  facts  that  may  be  of  in- 


ReV.    ElGEXE    Al.EXAXUER 

terest  to  the  present  generation  of  those  whose  memories  are 
still  green  with  the  events  of  the  days  gone  by  and  whose  hopes 
have  always  been  unfailing,  as  Avell  as  those  who  follow  after  us. 
To  the  writer  it  is  with  mixed  pleasure  and  gratitude  that  that 
period  of  his  life  is  recalled. 

In  June  of  1916  the  pastorate  was  begun  with  fear  and  trem- 
bling, although  there  was  a  hospitality  and  friendly  spirit  which  is 
peculiar  to   Sandy  Grove  Church.     Throughout   the  seven  years 


50  History  of 

there  were  few  times,  if  any,  that  there  was  not  a  handshake  from 
everyone  present,  nor  was  there  ever  a  stranger  or  visitor  who  on 
departing  felt  slighted.  The  jjeople  were  Scotch,  loyal,  sincere, 
dependable  and  cordial.  It  was  easy  to  make  friends  with  a  people 
like  tliis,  altho  they  were  reserved  in  woi'd  and  deed.  There  Avas  a 
sincerity  and  cordiality  in  this  people  that  is  unsurpassed  in  any 
peoi)le  with  whom  the  writer  has  come  in  contact,  and  his  lot  so  far 
has  l)een  in  ])leasant  places.  Alrhough  not  a  huntsman  hy  nature, 
nor  a  good  shot,  it  was  a  most  pleasant  recreation  to  go  '^deer 
driving"  over  the  old  hills  and  streams  with  the  Camerons  and 
Blues  and  Rays.  It  was  a  good  day's  work  to  follow  Mr.  Sam 
Cameron,  age  seventy-five,  from  suri-up  till  two  or  three  o'clock 
on  a  deer  hunt.  Another  deer  hunter  of  no  mean  reputation  was 
Mr.  David  J.  Ray,  who  used  "Old  Xever  Miss"  with  unerring 
accuracy.  "Old  Never  Miss"  was  a  42  inch  barrel  muzzle  loader. 
And  those  hunts  were  not  always  fruitless,  as  the  rugs  on  our 
floor  will  testify.  In  fact,  a  turkey  hunt  with  Mr.  H.  J.  Rogers, 
or  a  bird  hunt  with  Ed,  Alex  or  John  Cameron  or  any  of  those 
good  hunters  in  that  section  was  a  treat. 

The  old  Sandy  Grove  Church,  built  by  Peter  Monroe  in  1853 
and  '54,  was  in  poor  repair.  With  the  exception  of  an  occasional 
supply,  and  a  student  supply  in  the  summer  of  1915,  the  church 
had  been  without  a  pastor  since  the  death  of  the  beloved  Dr. 
David  Fairley  in  1912.  Xever  shall  the  writer  forget  the  first 
services  held  in  this  church.  Built  after  the  style  of  all  the 
churches  of  that  period,  the  pulpit  was  high  and  lifted  up,  and 
located  at  the  front  of  the  auditorium  between  the  two  front  doors. 
This  arrangement  caused  the  congregation  to  get  a  good  view  of 
the  minister,  as  well  as  all  who  were  entering  the  church,  quite 
a  distraction  if  there  were  many  late  arrivals.  One  great  ad- 
vantage to  tliis  arrangement  of  a  church  was  that  the  audience 
filled  in  from  the  front,  and  they  watched  the  minister.  The 
space  used  by  the  colored  people  of  the  olden  days  Avas  in  the 
extreme  rear,  with  a  side  door  entrance.  The  building  was  of  the 
finest  heart  pine  timber,  a  square  box  slia])e  with  pyramid  shaped 
roof. 

The  officers  of  the  church  were :  Elders,  'N.  S.  Blue,  D.  J.  Gillis, 
M.  A.  Patterson,  A.  C.  Monroe;  deacons,  S.  J.  Cameron,  M.  A. 
Gillis,  D.  N.  Leslie  and  Vance  Ray.     To  this  number  were  added 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  51 

in  1917:  Elders,  S.  J.  Cameron  and  H.  J.  Rogers;  deacons,  A.  B. 
Cameron  and  E.  W.  Cameron.  These  officers  were  unusually 
faithful  in  discharging  their  duties  and  attending  the  services  of 
the  sanctuary.  It  seemed  strange  that  there  was  little  interest  in 
Sunday  school  in  this  church.  There  were,  however,  comparatively 
few  children  in  the  congregation.  The  only  explanation  found 
was  in  the  great  distances  many  of  the  people  had  to  travel  to 
get  to  the  church.  The  roads  Avere  the  ordinary  sand  rut  variety. 
A  high  compliment  to  the  desire  for  public  worship  on  the  part 
of  some  of  the  families  was  that  they  would  start  early  and  walk 
five  to  seven  miles  to  the  church,  summer  or  winter. 

Late  in  the  winter  of  1916-17  a  movement  was  begun  to  repair 
and  remodel  the  church,  which  met  with  a  hearty  response,  not 
only  from  the  niemlx'rship  of  the  church,  but  among  the  former 
members  of  Sandy  Grove,  living  in  other  places,  as  far  away  as 
Alabama,  Florida  and  Georgia.  The  pulpit  was  erected  at  the 
other  end  of  the  building,  with  less  elevation,  new  windows  Avere 
placed  and  a  small  vestibule  Avith  a  steeple  Avas  added  at  the 
front.  The  seats  Avere  rearranged  and  flues  and  stoA^es  added,  and 
a  neAV  roof  Avas  put  on.  This  Avork  Avas  done  under  the  direction 
of  the  late  Mr.  C.  E.  BroAvn,  son-in-laAv  of  M.  A.  Gillis  and  a 
member  of  the  church.  After  these  improvements  Avere  completed 
and  paid  for  the  church  Avas  painted  inside  and  out.  It  is  a  neat, 
attractive  house  of  Avorship  Avith  seating  capacity  of  about  250. 
The  cost  of  these  improvements  Avas  over  $1,300.  Today  it  stands 
as  a  landmark  amid  the  round  pine  timber  that  has  been  preserved 
on  the  ten  acres  of  land  that  the  church  once  OAvned.  It  can  be 
seen  from  a  great  distance  in  all  directions ;  from  several  points 
on  the  State  HigliAvay  No.  70,  Aberdeen  to  Raeford,  it  is  visible. 
A  A^ery  clear  a'Icav  of  it  can  be  had  from  this  higliAvay  AAdiere  it 
passes  the  State  Sanatorium.,  It  is  a  shrine  in  the  hearts  and 
minds  of  a  devoted  and  loyal  people  that  are  now  scattered,  not 
only  over  l^orth  Carolina,  but  over  many  states  in  this  great 
nation.  Some  of  those  who  first  Avorshiped  God  at  this  old  church 
are  uoav  citizens  of  Virginia,  Georgia,  Florida,  Alabama,  Missis- 
sippi, Texas  and  Oklahoma. 

During  the  winter  of  1923  a  heavy  double  strand  Avire  fence  was 
erected  around  the  cemetery.     It  is  on  steel  posts  set  in  concrete 


52  History  of 

bases.  This,  with  the  simple  white  markers  that  were  placed  at 
the  head  and  foot  of  every  inimarked  graA^e,  adds  to  the  appear- 
ance of  the  sacred  old  bivouac  of  the  dead.  Fifty-seven  graves  had 
tombstones,  and  markers  were  placed  at  ninety-one,  so  there  are 
a  hundred  and  forty-eight  graves  marked,  and  so  far  as  is  known 
there  is  not  one  unmarked.  Perhaps  there  are  few  church  cem- 
eteries in  the  state  where  all  the  graves  are  so  well  marked.  The 
cemetery  is  protected  as  never  before ;  the  graves  are  permanently 
marked ;  a  duty  to  the  beloved  ones  has  been  discharged.  This 
work  was  done  most  largely  by  Mr.  Daniel  Brock,  a  former  member 
of  the  church,  and  the  writer,  at  a  cost  of  about  $400. 

During  the  two  years,  June,  1916,  to  July,  1918,  before  the 
writer  entered  the  U.  S.  Army,  the  membership  of  Sandy  Grove 
Church  was  faithful  and  regular  in  attendance  on  the  services 
which  were  held  on  the  first  and  third  Sundays.  There  was  little 
growth  in  the  membership  of  the  church  during  these  years.  Rev. 
L.  Smith,  Superintendent  of  Home  Missions  in  Fayetteville  Pres- 
bytery, assisted  the  pastor  in  a  series  of  services  in  November 
of  1916.  They  were  well  attended  and  there  were  two  additions 
to  the  church  on  profession  of  faith.  At  this  time  all  those  in 
the  community  who  were  old  enough  were  members  of  the  church. 
There  was  a  marked  increase  of  interest  and  contributions  to  the 
benevolent  causes  of  the  church,  as  well  as  for  the  purpose  of  its 
repair. 

There  was  a  comparatively  large  nonresident  membership,  and 
the  resident  membership  was  well  scattered.  Many  of  the  homes 
were  hidden  down  on  the  sides  of  the  hills,  as  it  was  characteristic 
of  the  early  settlers  in  any  section  to  seek  the  springs  and  streams. 
ISTaturally  the  pastoral  work  was  difficult,  but  w^itli  a  Ford  it  Avas 
possible.  On  one  occasion  during  the  fall  of  1916  on  a  tour  of 
the  congregation  it  was  necessary  to  cross  Gum  Branch.  It  was 
deep  and  a  little  swollen — too  deep  for  the  Ford,  but  midstream 
was  reached  before  the  fact  was  discovered.  Fortunately,  it  was 
on  a  little  traveled  road.  The  only  thing  to  do  was  to  follow  the 
example  of  the  well-known  county  treasurer  and  patriarch,  Wm. 
J.  McCraney,  and  take  off  shoes,  get  out  and  push.  It  was  cold, 
but  necessary.    It  is  best  to  have  bridges  over  such  streams ! 

It  was  a  pleasure  to  visit  the  people  of  this  congregation.     You 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  53 

were  welcomed  with  sincerity  instead  of  with  demonstration. 
Although  the  sandhill  land  was  often  the  subject  of  jest  and 
jibe,  on  it  dwelt  the  best  livers  of  that  great  section  of  the  state. 
In  this  very  section  about  old  Sandy  Grove  Church  there  flowed 
a  stream  of  gold  from  the  round  pine  timber  in  the  form  of  tur- 
pentine and  rosin.  Later  the  lumbering  industry  stripped  the 
hills,  leaving  only  the  black-jack.  Farming  naturally  followed. 
Today  there  are  millions  of  small  pine  sprouts  growing;  in  fifty 
years  or  more  another  stream  of  gold  will  flow  if  forest  fires  are 
prevented. 

In  July,  1918,  the  writer  entered  the  army  and  after  a  period 
of  five  weeks'  training  in  the  Chaplain's  School  at  Camp  Taylor, 
Ky.,  was  commissioned  as  First  Lieutenant  and  Chaplain,  IT.  S. 
Army.  The  church  granted  him  a  leave  of  absence  for  the  duration 
of  the  war.  On  September  5th  he  was  assigned  to  the  71st 
Infantry,  11th  Division,  training  at  Camp  Meade,  Md.  On 
January  25,  1919,  he  Avas  ordered  to  Newport  jSTews,  Va.,  and 
later  to  Hoboken,  ]Sr.  J.,  for  transport  duty  on  board  the  U.,  S.  S. 
"Liberator."  One  trip  across  was  made  between  February  28th 
and  April  2nd.  Six  days  were  spent  in  France — Paris  in  par- 
ticular. 

In  the  fall  of  1918  the  Government  was  persuaded  that  this  sec- 
tion of  Hoke  County  with  a  part  of  Cumberland  County  was 
needed  for  an  artillery  range — an  area  of  120,000  acres  of  land. 
The  people  of  this  section  were  sincerely  patriotic  and  for  the  sake 
of  country  were  willing  to  give  up  homes  and  farms  in  order 
that  Uncle  Sam  might  train  troops  for  the  foreign  service.  This 
territory  was  ideal  for  such  a  project  from  every  point  of  view. 
It  had  been  falsely  reported  to  governmental  authorities  that  these 
lands  could  be  bought  for  a  song,  a  few  dollars  per  acre.  The  gov- 
ernment land  agents  came  to  find  that  this  could  not  be  clone, 
except  in  cases  of  colored  land  owners  and  a  few  others  who  seemed 
to  have  been  frightened  into  selling  out.  In  fact,  after  the  Armis- 
tice was  signed  the  majority,  not  being  able  to  see  the  need  of 
the  range  as  a  wartime  measure,  opposed  the  coming  of  the  camp 
and  were  unwilling  to  sell  their  holdings  at  any  price.  Then  began 
on  the  part  of  the  governm.ent  agents  a  bitter,  unwarranted  and 
unfair  struggle  to  buy  the  lands.     So-called  appraisers  rode  over 


54  History  of 

tlieso  lands  time  after  time,  some  of  them  citizens  of  Hoke  County. 
They  seem  to  have  been  under  the  dominance  of  the  government 
representative.  Many  of  the  appraisers  were  not  under  oath. 
They  worked  for  a  per  diem.  For  those  reasons  their  services  were 
un(h'sirable  and  unacceptable  to  the  land  owners.  Having  failed 
by  this  method,  the  government  brought  condemnation  proceedings 
against  the  laud  owners.  The  Federal  Court,  Judge  Henry  G. 
Connor  presiding,  appointed  court  api)raisers  and  they  went  over 
the  land.  Judge  Connor  himself  made  a  hurried  tour  of  the  range 
before  handing  down  his  decrees.  In  the  summer  of  1922  the 
decrees  were  handed  down,  and  they  wci'c  far  from  satisfactorj^. 
1918  to  1922  were  four  long  years  of  anxiety  and  worry.  During 
these  years  affairs  in  this  section  Avere  at  a  standstill.  There  was 
no  assurance  of  being  perniitte(l  to  cultivate  and  gather  a  crop. 
The  labor  in  the  section  had  moved  out.  There  were  about  four 
hundred  families  in  all  affected  by  these  proceedings.  These  four 
years  were  a  total  loss  to  those  aft'ected,  in  addition  to  the  mental 
anguish  and  uncertainty  prevailing.  This  procedure  seems  to 
have  been  the  most  inconsiderate  and  unfair  that  has  ever  evolved 
fi'om  a  red-tape-burdened  government.,  Only  those  who  have  been 
intimately  aft'ected  can  comjtrehend  tin'  conditions  prevailing  and 
tile  mental,  moral  and  financial  bai'dsbip  endured.  These  liard- 
sliii)s  were  endured  at  the  hands  of  tlie  government  by  a  people 
as  loyal  and  patriotic  as  ever  breathed  the  fragi'ant,  i)ine-laden 
air  of  a  free  country.  Fathers  and  mothers  had  given  their  sous 
to  the  service  of  country.  They  observed  meatless,  heatless,  wheat- 
less  and  sweetless  days.  They  bought  Liberty  Bonds  and  War 
Savings  Stamps ;  they  gave  to  the  Red  Cross  and  welfare  organiza- 
tions. At  least  one  notable  and  respected  citizen  was  ready  to  turn 
over  his  realty  holdings — and  they  were  very  considerable — for 
government  use  for  duration  of  the  war.  Another,  a  daughter  of 
this  old  church,  offered  her  inheritance  for  the  relief  of  the  suf- 
fering soldiers,  for  she  had  not  a  son  old  enough  for  the  Army. 
Naturally  in  the  post-war  days,  during  those  anxious  four  years 
came  the  question,  why  this  delay?  Why  this  treatment  at  the 
hands  of  our  own  government? 

During   this   period — 1918-1922 — many   people   moved    out     of 
the  community.     Services  were  continued  at  Sandy   Grove  until 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church  55 

January  1,  1923,  even  after  the  reservation  was  occupied,  through 
the  courtesy  of  the  commanding  officer  of  Camp  Bragg.  During 
1922  practically  the  Avhole  congregation  had  moved  to  Raeford. 
On  September  9th,  1923,  there  Avas  a  Home  Coming  Service  at 
the  old  church.  More  than  two  hundred  of  the  old  Sandy  Grove 
folk  were  present.  Rev.  Dougal  Monroe,  who  has  since  gone  Home, 
preached  and  the  writer  assisted  in  administering  the  Commun- 
ion of  the  Lord's  Supper.  This  occasion  was  especially  notable 
because  of  the  fact  that  it  marked  the  end  of  fifty  years  of  con- 
tinuous service  in  this  church  of  one  of  its  elders,  ]^eal  S.  Blue. 
Among  the  many  faithful  and  loyal  members  and  officers  of  this 
church  his  services  are  outstanding  and  remarkable.  He  was 
ordained  an  elder  in  early  life  and  has  ever  been  zealous  and 
faithful  in  the  performance  of  his  duties.  He  was  ever  on  the 
alert  to  relieve  sufi^ering  and  uplift  his  fellowman.  He  was  a 
loyal  supporter  of  his  church.  He  was  a  firm  believer  in  Christian 
education  and  has  contributed  wisely  and  liberally  to  at  least 
tAvo  of  our  Presbyterian  schools :  Davidson  College  and  Flora  Mc- 
Donald College.  He  was  missionary  in  spirit,  as  is  evidenced  by 
the  establishment  of  the  Bennie  Blue  Memorial  Hospital  at 
Hsuchoufu,  China. 

The  pastorate  in  the  old  Sandy  Grove  Church  was  a  happy  one, 
full  of  rich,  unique  experiences  among  a  people  who  Avere  sympa- 
thetic and  appreciatiA'e.  For  the  Avriter  it  Avas  his  first  pastorate; 
for  Sandy  Grove  Church  he  is  perhaps  the  last  pastor.  "Hope 
springs  eternal  in  the  human  breast."  If  this  okb  church  is  never 
reestablished  in  this  Avorld,  may  there  be  an  unbroken  circle  Avhen 
Ave  have  crossed  the  bar.  It  is  impossible  to  pay  a  just  tribute 
to  many  of  the  sterling  characters  of  this  old  church,  or  to  express 
adequately  my  feeling  of  genuine  affection  and  esteem  for  the 
people  of  Old  Sandy  Grove.     May  God  bless  every  one  of  them. 


ACTION  OF  THE  CONGREGATIONAL  MEETING  OF 

SANDY  GROVE  PRESBYTERIAN  CHURCH, 

APRIL  2,  1922 

Election  of  Trustees :     On  motion  the  congregation   elected   as 
trustees,  Frank  S.  Blue  and  Alex  Campbell,  in  addition  to  S.  J. 


56  History  of 

Cameron,  Alex.  B.  Cameron  and  Neal  A.  McFayden,  who  liave 
heretofore  been  elected  and  are  serving  in  that  capacity. 

The  following  request  was  made  of  Fayetteville  Presbytery  con- 
ct^rning  the  trustees  of  this  church : 

That  Fayetteville  Presbytery  be  requested  to  elect  trustees  for 
the  funds  received  from  the  United  States  Government  for  the 
Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  property  and  any  interest 
accruing  therefrom, 

Provided.  That  the  following  be  elected  to  serve  as  follows: 
S.  J.  Cameron  and  JSTeal  A.  McFayden  for  a  term  of  one  year ; 
Alex.  B.  Cameron  an.d  Frank  S.  Blue  for  a  term  of  two  years;  and 
Alex  Campbell  for  a  tei'm  of  three  years. 

Provided,  That  the  above  named  trustees  be  elected  thereafter 
as  their  terms  expire  for  a  period  of  three  years. 

Provided,  That  in  case  of  a  vacancy  or  vacancies  by  resignation 
or  death.  Presbytery  elect  as  successor  or  successors  lineal  descend- 
ants of  members  of  the  Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Chtirch  and 
those  elected  themselves  members  of  the  Presbyterian  Chnrcli  in 
the  United  States. 


RESOLUTION  CONCERNING  THE  DISPOSITION  AND 
USE  OF  FUNDS 

Resolved,  That  the  funds  received  from  the  United  States  Gov- 
ernment for  the  Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church  property  be 
kept  intact   except  as  hereinafter  provided. 

Provided  (1)  That  a  sufficient  amount  of  the  principal,  $6,000, 
and  accrued  interest,  be  expended  by  the  trustees  to  enclose  the 
cemetery  with  a  desirable  and  suitable  enclosure., 

Provided  (2)  That  a  sufficient  amount  of  the  principal,  .$6,000, 
and  accrued  interest,  be  expended  by  the  trustees  to  mark  with 
suitable,  simple  markers,  the  graves  in  the  cemetery,  where  neces- 
sary. 

Provided  (3)  That  a  sufficient  amount  of  the  interest  accruing 
from  the  principal  be  expended  by  the  trustees  annually  for  the 
purpose  of  keeping  up  the  cemetery  and  for  making  repairs  to 
the  church  building  that  may  seem  wise  and  necessary. 

Provided  (4)  That  a  sufficient  amount  of  the  principal,  $6,000, 
and  accrued  interest,  be  expended  by  the  trustees  for  the  purpose 


Sandy  Grove  Pbesbyterian   Church  57 

of  printing  the  History  of  Sandy  Grove  Chiircli  now  in  course  of 
preparation. 

Provided  (5)  That  the  interest  annually  from  the  balance  of  the 
original  sum,  v^^hieh  is  six  thousand  dollars  ($6,000),  after  the 
above  mentioned  expenditures  have  been  made,  be  replaced  with 
the  said  balance  until  the  principal  is  again  $6,000.  Then  the 
annual  interest  is  to  be  contributed  to  some  benevolent  cause  of 
the  Presbyterian  Church  in  the  United   States. 

Provided  (6)  That  the  trustees  lend  these  funds,  keeping  them 
intact  to  the  best  advantage  possible,  safety  considered,  preferably 
in  the  channels  of  the  Presbyterian  Church  in  the  United  States. 

Provided  (7)  That  iiL  the  event  that  the  Government  Reserva- 
tion known  as  Camp  Bragg  or  Fort  Bragg  is  abandoned  or  in  any 
manner  disposed  of  by  the  United  States  Government  the  trustees 
may  buy  this  site,  or  one  in  this  community,  in  their  discretion 
suitable  for  the  purpose  of  reestablishing  a  Sandy  Grove  Pres- 
byterian Church. 

Provided  (8)  That  in  the  year  1940  if  the  funds  are  still  unused 
for  the  purposes  mentioned  in  the  seventh  section  above,  i.e.,  for 
the  purchase  and  reestablishment  of  a  Sandy  Grove  Presby- 
terian Church  in  this  community,  they  shall,  after  setting  apart 
an  amount,  the  interest  from  which  is  suificient  for  the  annual 
upkeep  of  the  cemetery,  dispose  of  the  remainder  for  any  Presby- 
terian Church  or  Presbyterian  Churches  or  for  any  benevolent 
cause  or  causes  of  the  Presbvterian  Church  in  the  United  States. 


THE  MEMBERSHIP  OF  THE  CHURCH 

Bethune,  Mrs.   Ann 

Bethune,  Isabella  Caroline 

Bethune,  Andrew  Jackson 

Bethune,  Mrs.   Sarah  Ann,  wife  of  A.  J. 

Black,  Mrs.  Mary,  wife  of  John 

Black,  Mary 

Black,  Annie 

Black,  John 

Blue,  Neill  McKeithan 

Blue,  Mrs.  Eliza,  wife  of  I^eill 


58  History  of 


Blue,   Sarah   Aim 

Blue,  Eliza  Newel 

Blue,  John 

Blue,  Neill 

Blue,  Lydia  Margaret 

Blue,  Daniel  J. 

Blue,  James  A. 

Blue,  Jennett  S.,  Avife  of  James  A. 

Blue,  Mrs.  Mollie,  Avife  of  Laucliliii  Alex. 

Blue,  Lauelilin  Alex. 

Blue,  Mrs.  Mary  E.,  wife  of  Neill  S. 

Blue,  Frank    Smitli. 

Betliune,  Lauelilin   Alexander 

Betliune,   Maximelian  D. 

Betliune,  Miss  F.  I. 

Buehan,  Daiii.l  M.  L. 

Brock,    Deems  I>. 

Brock,   Daniel    A. 

Brock,  David    Eufus 

Brock,   Mary 

Beard,  EfRe 

Brock,  Flora 

Brock,   ]\[allie 

Beard,  Katie 

Black,  Weill 

Brown,   C^aud   C. 

Campl)ell,  ^Vlexander 

Campbell,  Mrs.  Effie,  wife  of  Alex. 

Cam]»hell,  Mary 

Cani}>liell,  Duncan   M. 

Campbell,  Daniel  B. 

Canady,  Alexander 

Campbell,  Margaret  L. 

Campbell,  Sarah  L. 

Campbell,  John  A. 

Campbell,  Mary,   Avife  of   Murdoch 

Campbell,  Sarah 

Campbell,  Mrs.  Mary,  wife  of  Peter 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church  5^ 

CamiDbell,   Caroline 

Campbell,   Catherine  V.,  wife  of  Daniel  L. 

Campbell,  Mrs.  Mary,  wife  of  Norman 

Currie,  Mrs.  Margaret,  wife  of  Duncan 

Chappel,  Mrs.  Anna,  wife  of  James 

Chappel,  John    M. 

Currie,  John  C. 

Currie,  Mrs.  Margaret,  wife  of  John  C. 

Currie,  Caroline 

Currie.  John  Calvin 

Currie,  Angus  D. 

Currie,  Isabella  Amanda 

Currie,  Margaret  Jane 

Currie,  Newton  Beth  Line 

Campbell,  Murdoch 

Campbell,  Alexander 

Campbell,  John 

Campbell,  Walter  D. 

Campbell,  Mattie  Lee 

Currie,  James  B. 

Campbell,  Beulah  Scot 

Campbell,  William  Christopher 

Campbell,  Been  a  Lee 

Campbell,  Alberta  Virginia 

Campbell,  Malcom  Ralph 

Clark,  Christianna  Jane 

Chappell,  Ella  Florence 

Chappell,  Mary  Margaret 

Cameron,  Samuel  J. 

Cameron,   Christianna  C. 

Cameron,  Samuel  Carlton 

Cameron,  Beulah   Smith 

Cameron,  Eddie  Watts 

Cameron,  John  A. 

Cameron,  Annie    E. 

Cameron,  John  McNeill 

Cameron,  Margaret  Jewell 

Cameron,  Margarette 


60  History  of 


Campbell,  Maggie 

Campbell,  Alex 

Chappell,  William  M. 

Chappell,  DuiK-au 

Cliappell,  Maleom  Moui'oe 

Chappell,   James  Alton 

Chappell,  John  Thomas 

Cameron,  Alex.  Blue 

Cameron,  John  Bryan 

Cameron,  Juanita 

Cameron,  Frank 

Cameron,  Ida  Rebecca 

Cameron,  Sarah  Margaret 

Currie,  John   Angus 

Currie,  Lonnie 

Currie,   Ida   L. 

Currie,   Charity 

Cameron,   John   Marsh 

Campbell,   Sarah  Margaret 

Campbell,  Daniel  N. 

Campbell,  Neill  L. 

Davis,  Flora  Ann 

Edwards,  Harriet  N". 

Finlayson,   Christian 

Finlayson,   Cothran 

Ferguson,  John 

Gillis,  R.  D. 

Gillis,  Mrs.  ^NTaney 

Gillis,  Murdoch 

Gillis,  Duncan  J. 

Gillis,  Roderick  A. 

Gillis,  Neill  Wbitfield 

Gillis,  John  A. 

Gillis,  Mrs.  Catherine  J.  wife  of  John  A. 

Gillis,  Evander 

Gillis,  Mrs.  Mary,  wife  of  Murdoch  A. 

Gillis,  Jonathan 

Gillis,   Sarah   Jane 


Sandy  Grovp:  Presbyterian   Church  61 

Gillis,  Margaret    Eliza 
Gillis,   Sarah   Catherine 
Graham,  Alexander 
Graham,  Mrs.   Ann,   wife   of   Alex. 
Graham,  Eliza 
Graham,  Catherine 
Gi'aham,  Mary 
Graham,  Martha 
Gillis,  Archibald   A. 
Gillis,  Mary  Alice 
Gnin,  Jane 
Guin,  Dniican  James 
Guin,  William   C. 
Guin,  Archibald  A. 
Gillis,  Malcom 
Graham,  Laura  Bell 
Gillis,   Annie   Jane 
Gillis,  Annie  Bell 
^         Gillis,  Florah  J. 

Gillis,  Mary  Me:Neill 
Guiton,  T.  W. 
■   Guiton,   Charlotte  E. 
Guiton,  W.  J. 
Guiton,  M.  C. 
Gillis,  ]Sreill   Rodrick 
Gillis,  Margaret  Whitfield 
Gillis,  Annie  Bell 
Gilhs,  Evander 
Gillis,  Murdoch  Watson 
Gillis,  K  W. 
Gillis,  Mrs.  N.  W. 
Jernigan,  Mary  Alice 
Jackson,  J.   A. 
Leslie,  Daiiiel 

Leslie,  Mrs.  Florah  Ann,  wife  of  Dajjiel 
Leslie,  Alexander 
Leslie,  John 
Leslie,  Anna 
Leslie,   Sarah,    wife   of   Alexander 


62 


History  of 


Leslie,   Catherine 

Leslie,  Daniel  Newton 

Leslie,  Margaret 

Leslie,  Florah  Scott 

Leslie,  Mary 

Monroe,  Peter 

Monroe,  Mrs.  Isabella  J.,  Avife  of  Peter 

Monroe,  Evander 

Monroe,   Colin  Alexander 

Monroe,   Edmund  Marshall 

Monroe,  Archibald    Cornelius 

Monroe,  Margaret  Jane 

Monroe,   John   P. 

Monroe,  Dugald 

Monroe,  Amanda,    Avife   of   Peter 

Monroe,  Mrs.  Jane,  Avife  of  Dugald 

Monroe,  Dugald 

Munroe,  Malcom 

Munroe,  Margaret,   Avife  of  Malcom 

Monroe,  Mary  Eliza 

Monroe,  Emma  A. 

Monroe,  Margaret  Ann 

Monroe,  Martha  Jane 

Monroe,  Sallie   I. 

Monroe,  Catharine 

Monroe,  Sophronia 

Monroe,  Rebecca 

Monroe,  Florence 

McLeod,  Archibald 

McLeod,  Sarah  C. 

McLeod,  Murdock  James 

McLeod,  Thomas  Benton 

McLeod,  Isabel 

McLeod,  Sarah   Catherine 

McCaskill,  Daniel  C,   Sr. 

McCaskill,  Mrs.  Mary,  Avife  of  Daniel 

McCaskill,  Mary 

McCaskill,  Roderick 

McCaskill,  John 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church 


63 


McDaniel,  Daniel   C,    Jr. 

McCaskill,  JNTaiicy 

McDugald,  Flora 

McLeod,  Pearlie   C. 

McDonald,  John 

McDonald,  Angns 

McDonald,  Mrs.   Sarah,  wife  of  Angus 

McDonald,  John  W. 

McDnffie,   Harriet  Ann 

McDnffie,  Murdoch 

McDuffie,  Catherine,  wife  of  Mnrdo.li 

McDnffie,  Daniel 

McDnffie,  Dnncan   K. 

McDuffie,  Lovedy  Catharine 

McDuffie,  Alexander 

McDuffie,   Christian,  wife  of  Alex. 

McDuffie,  Margaret  Ann 

McDuffie,   Sarah  Catharine 

McDuffie,  Mary  B. 

McLeod,  Lauchlin 

McLeod,  Mrs.  Effie,  wife  of  Lauchlin 

McLeod,  Anna 

McLeod,  Florah 

McKeithan,  Mrs.  Christian,  wife  of  John 

McKeithen,  Cinthia  Ann 

McKeithen,  Lovedy  Margaret 

McKeithen,  Daniel 

McKeithen,  Sarah  Martha 

McKeithen,  Eliza    Smith 

McLeod,  Mrs.   Isa])ella,   wife  of   Archie 

McLeod,  Mrs.    Mary,   wife   of   Archie 

McLeod,  Murdoch 

McLeod,  John   Knox 

McLeod,  Sallie  Ann,  wife  of  A.  Daniel 

McLeod,  ISTeill  A. 

McLeod,  John  O. 

McLeod,  Mrs.  Catherine  A.  wife  of  Murdoch 

McLeod,  Daniel   Arch. 

McCraney,  Malconi 


64  History  of 


McCraney,  Mrs.  Sarah,  wife  of  Malcom 

McCraney,  William  J. 

McCraney,  Mary  Ann 

McLauran,  Robert 

McLauran,  Anna,  wife  of  Robert 

McLeod,  Anna 

McPlierson,  Nancy 

McPherson,   CaTnerine  Ann,  wife  of  J.  D. 

McCrumniend,   jSTeill 

McGngan,  Dnncaii 

McGugan,  Mary  Jane 

McKeatlian,   Christian  Lnola 

McDnffie,  Duncan   Alex. 

McDnliie,  Effie   Christian 

McDnffie,  JSTeill  Henry 

McDnffie,  Daniel  Mnrdock 

McDnffie,  Elizabeth  jSTewel 

McDnffie,  Lon   Ella,  wife  of  Daniel   M. 

McDnffie,  Mary   Christian 

McLeod,  Norman   C. 

McLeod,  Alice,  wife   of  Norman 

McDnffie,  Harriet  Ann 

McFadyen,  Lillie  G. 

McCraney,  Jane 

McCraney,  Frances   E. 

Maultsby,  Belle 

Maultsby,  John    S. 

McFayden,  John  J. 

McFayden,  Mary  R.,  wife  of  John   J. 

McFayden,  Neill   Alexander 

McFayden,  Addie  Bell 

McFayden,  Mary  Ann 

McFayden,  John   Thomas 

McLeod,  D.  C. 

McLeod,  Mary  E. 

McLeod,  Delia  Mae 

McRacken,  J.  B. 

McRacken,  Mary  Ina 

McRacken,  Leslie 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church 


65 


McEacken,  Ethel 

McEackeii,  Cora  Mae 

McFayden,  William  Lacy 

McFayden,  Eliza  Melvin 

Patterson,  Duncan 

Patterson,  Margaret  Jane,  wife  of  D. 

Patterson,  John  Alexander 

Patterson,   Catharine  Anne 

Patterson,  Florah   Margaret 

Patterson,  Duncan 

Patterson,  Martin  A. 

Patterson,  George  W. 

Peterson,  Ann  Jenett 

Peterson,  John 

Peterson,  Archie 

Patterson,  Alex  McL. 

Ray,  Angus 

Ray,  Florah 

Ray,  Mary 

Ray,  Flora  M.,  wife  of  Angus 

Ray,  Sarah  Jane 

Ray,  Archibald  G. 

Ray,  Jennet,  wife  of  Archie  G. 

Ray,  Mary  F. 

Ray,   Jane 

Ray,  Flora  Ann 

Ray,  Laney  Amillia 

Ray,  Joana 

Ray,  Catherine    Caroline 

Ray,  Archibald  S. 

Ray,  Sarah,  wife  of  Archie  S. 

Ray,  Margaret   Stewart 

Ray,  Effie  Jane 

Ray,  David  James 

Ray,  Mary  Catharine 

Ray,  Harriet  Ann,  wife  of  Archie 

Ray,  Effie  E. 

Ray,  Eliza 

Ray,  Effie  Virginia 


66  Hl.STOKY    OF 


Eay,  Mary,    (col.)    wife  of  Neill 

Ray,  Duncan 

Ray,   John  C. 

Ray,  William  D. 

Ray,  Martin  A. 

Ray,  S.  Vance 

Ray,  Duncan   P. 

Ray,  Hugh  A. 

Ray,  Florah  Martin 

May,  Mary  Elizabeth 

Ray,  Flora  Jenett 

Ray,  Lydia 

Ray,  Daniel   Angus 

Rogers,  H.   J. 

Rogers,  Mrs.  H.  J. 

Smith,  Lovedy 

Steward,  George 

Steward,  Mary  C, 

Skull,  Joseph  G. 

Skull,  Elizabeth 

Wilson,  Sallie  A. 

Wilson,  James 


REGRETS 


It  is  exceedingly  regrettable  on  our  part  that  we  were  unable  to 
get  pictures  of  three  elders  wlio  were  charter  members  of  Sandy 
Grove  Church,  viz. :  Peter  Monroe,  Archie  McLeod,  and  John  L. 
Campbell.  We  made  every  possible  effort  to  get  them  but  are  very 
sorry  to  say  that  we  were  unable  to  do  so.  It  would  have  added 
materially    to  this  work  if  we  could  have  secured  them. 


TWO  LIVES  OF  EQUAL  DURATION 

Two  of  the  sons  of  this  Old  Church :  Daniel  McDuffie,  and 
Daniel  MeCaskill,  Avere  born  the  same  day,  joined  Sandy  Grove 
Church  the  same  day,  enlisted  in  the  Confederate  i\.rmy  the  same 
day,  and  l)oth  of  them  were  wounded  the  same  day  and  died  the 
same  day. 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian  Church 


67 


S.  J.  CAMERON  AND  FAMILY 

S.  J.  Cameron  was  born  Febrnary  14,  1848.  He  is  tlie  son  of 
Samuel  and  Catherine  Blue  Cameron  of  Harnett  County.  He  is  a 
descendant  of  tlie  Early  Scotch  settlers  of  the  Cape  Fear  settlement. 
His  great  grandfather  fought  with  the  Vanquished  Army  at  Cul- 
loden,  and  was  forced  to  take  the  oath  of  allegiance  to  the  British 


S.  J.  Cameron 

Crown.  At  the  beginning  of  the  Revolutionary  War,  like  most 
of  the  Scotch  he  sympathized  with  the  cause  of  his  adopted  coun- 
try, and  rather  than  to  betray  the  solemn  oath  which  he  had  taken 
he  fled  to  Cuba  where  he  remained  until  the  end  of  the  war. 
After  the  war  was  over  he  returned  to  Moore  County,  and  lived 
there  until  the  end  of  his  life. 

On  December  the  16,  1869  S.  J.  Cameron  was  married  to  Miss 
Margaret  McKeithan,  to  this  union  was  born  five  sons  and  three 
daughters.  Fie  was  ordained  Deacon  in  Sandy  Grove  Church, 
Augiist  11,  1901,  which  office  he  held  until  June  17,  1917  when 
he  was  ordained  Rulino-  Elder. 


68 


History  of 


THE  BLUE  FAMILY 

Neill  McK.  Blue,  was  a  charter  iiieiiilM'r  of  Sandy  Grove  Cliurcli, 
and  was  one  of  its  most  loyal  supporters,  giving  of  his  time  and 
money  to  the  work  of  the  church,  and  the  uplift  of  his  fellowman. 


N.   McK.   Blue 

He  was  the  father  of  six  sons,  and  four  (hiughtcrs,  viz.:  Lau- 
chlin,  John,  Neill  S.,  Daniel,  Malcolm,  James,  Sarah,  Catherine, 
Eliza,  and  Lydia.  The  two  oldest  boys  answered  the  call  of 
their  country,  and  joined  the  Confederate  Army.  When  the  war 
was  over  they  returned  home  to  find,  the  once  prosperous  neighbor- 
hood  luid    now  been   well   nigh   made  desolate. 


Sandy  Grove  Peesbyterian  Church 


69 


In  the  year  of  1866  John  and  Neill  S.,  united  with  Sandy 
Grove  Church.  And  in  1873  John  was  elected  Deacon  which 
office  he   filled   with    ability   until   he   moved   his   memhership    to 


Mrs.  N.  McK.  Blue 


Bethesda,  and  was  later  ordained  as  Ruling  Elder  in  that  church. 
In  1873  Neill  S.,  was  ordained  as  an  Elder  in  Sandy  Grove 
Church  which  office  he  holds  at  the  present  time.  During  all  these 
52  years  the  writer  has  been  personally  acquainted  with  him,  and 
has  never  known  him  to  shirk  any  duty  that  the  office  of  Ruling 
Elder  would  place  upon  him.  He  was  never  too  busy  to  visit 
the  sick.    He  gave  freely  of  his  time  and  money  to  the  church. 


70 


History  of 


After  the  war  was  over  Alexander,  John  and  Neill  S.,  engaged 
in  the  turpentine  business,  and  for  several  years  did  most  of 
their  own  work,  and  investing  most  of  what  tliey  were  able  to  earn 
in  timbered  lands. 


John  Bllk 

About  1890  John  and  Neill  S.,  realizing  the  necessity  for  better 
transportation  facilities  for  their  own  and  their  neighbors'  products 
conceivt'd  the  idea  of  and  built  the  Aberdeen  and  Rockfish  Rail- 
road. 

Circumstances  whicli  they  in  their  boyhood  could  not  overcome 
caused  their  education  to  be  limited.  By  honest  toil  and  loyal 
cooperation  with  each  other  they  made  a  great  success. 


Sandy  Gkove  Presbyteriak  Church 


71 


N.   S.  Blue 


72 


History  of 


Mks.    N.    S.    Blue 


L.  A.  Bi.viE 


Sandy  Grove  Presbyterian   Church 


73 


Jolin  Blue  represented  liis  county  one  term  in  tlie  Senate  of 
North  Carolina,  but  refused  a  second  nomination,  clioosing  rather 
to  attend  to  business  matters,  and  let  others  look  after  the  affairs 
of  state. 

All  of  the  children  were  extremely  faithful  to  Sandy  Grove 
Church,  and  the  cause  of  C^hrist. 


E.  W.  Cajiekon 


MEMORIAL 

Eddie  Watt  Cameron,  son  of  S.  J.  and  Margarette  Cameron 
was  born  September  29th,  1882.,  He  attended  public  school  near 
his  home,  and  also,  the  Raeford  Institute.  He  was  married  May 
6th,  1906,  to  Miss  Sallie  Powell  of  Crestview,  Fla.  In  early 
life  he  professed  his  faith  in  Christ  and  joined  the  church.  On 
June  17,  1917,  he  was  made  a  deacon  in  Sandy  Grove  Church, 
which  office  he  filled  with  distinction  to  the  end  of  his  life.  He 
was  a  successful  business  nran,  and  was  always  ready  to  give  of 
his  ability,  his  time,  and  his  money  to  his  church.  On  August 
15th,  1925,  after  an  illness  of  about  three  weeks  in  the  Highsmith 
Hospital   in   Fayetteville,   his   spirit    took   its   flight   to   the    God 


74 


Hl.sTORY    OF 


who  gave  it.  On  the  following  day  hi-s  body  was  laid  to  rest  at 
Sandy  Grove  in  the  shadow  of  the  old  church  he  loved  so  well. 
The  great  host  of  friends  who  followed  him  to  his  last  resting  place, 
and  covered  the  mound  with  flowers,  speaks  louder  than  any  words, 
the  esteem  in  which  he  was  held  by  all  who  knew  him. 


1   I  \        \       I)      (    \l  -Wl  I  I 

HISTORY  OF  SANDY  GROVE  CHURCH  FROM 

1924-1925 

In  1924  the  Eev.  A.  D.  Carswell,  wont  to  Sandy  Grove  as 
stated  supi>ly,  preaching  every  fifth  Sunday,  and  on  specuil 
occasions.  The  sei-vices  have  been  well  attended  considering  the 
long  distance  Avhich  the  ])eople  have  to  come.  The  church  has 
been  almost  abandoned  ever  since  the  United  States  Government 


Sandy  Grove  Peesbyteriak  Church  75 

took  possession  of  all  the  land  for  miles  around  the  church.  The 
members  of  the  church  are  exceedingly  loyal,  and  are  never  so 
happy  as  when  they  are  worshiping  under  its  roof.  They  have 
been  used  to  good  preaching  all  their  lives  and  are  absolutely 
intolerant  toward  anything  except  a  Gospel  message.  At  present 
they  are  holding  services  under  great  difficulty,  because  they  live 
many  miles  away,  and  the  roads  are  in  very  bad  condition.  But 
these  faithful  Scotch  are  unwilling  to  abandon  the  place  of  their 
spiritual  birth.      They  were  inoculated   at   birth   with  the    spirit 


M.  A.  Pattehson 

of  perseverance,  and  nothing  can  thwart  their  plans  but  the  power 
of  God.  They  put  duty  far  beyond  expediency,  and  hold  an 
obligation  as  sacred  as  life  itself.  These  faithful  souls  will  never 
forsake  the  assembling  of  themselves  together  in  this  old  Sanctuary, 
to  sing  the  songs  of  Zion,  until  God  in  His  wise  providence  sees 
fit  to  summons  them  to  join  the  Heavenly  Choir. 

On  the  third  Sunday  in  September,  1924,  we  had  a  home- 
coming at  Sandy  Grove.  No  special  invitations  were  sent  out, 
but  on  preaching  day  we  had  a  capacity  audience.  We  are  look- 
ing forward  with  great  pleasure  to  the  home-coming  this  year 
which  will  be  held  the  third  Sunday  in  September. 


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